EVALUATION POLICY: GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF EVALUATION

The principles of sound evaluation underpin quality evaluation in schools and TAFE as well as major
strategic evaluations by state and regional offices.
The way that these principles are applied will depend on the context of the evaluation.
The principles include:
a. Validity: Comprehensively and accurately identifies:

the needs that are to be met by an activity (e.g. program, project, strategy, policy or
operational function)

the evidence that would indicate whether those needs are being met, the extent to which
they are being met and how

the perspectives of relevant stakeholder groups, including clients/students.

b. Rigour: Soundly and systematically applies appropriate, well designed data collection methods
and interpretive strategies to provide clear and accurate information that can be relied on.

c. Utility: The evaluation design is able to provide timely, accurate and practical information that
meets the needs of the range of stakeholder groups.

d. Feasibility: The proposed evaluation can be completed within practical constraints and
available resources and is cost effective.

e. Transparency: Comprehensive, systematic and well justified recording and reporting of all
aspects of the evaluation including choice of methods and analyses and the conclusions drawn.
f.

Integrity:

evaluation is conducted in an ethical manner using appropriate, well designed, data

Evaluation policy: general principles (December 2010)
General manager, planning and innovation, (02) 9561 8099.

collection methods and interpretive strategies

reporting of results is clear, candid, comprehensive, accurate, fair and balanced.

g. Efforts are made to promote appropriate and effective use of the findings.

For major strategic evaluations the principle of independence also applies i.e. individuals involved in,
or responsible for the design or delivery of a program, project, strategy, or operational function will
not be responsible for designing, undertaking or reporting on its evaluation.

Evaluation policy: general principles (December 2010)

General manager, planning and innovation, (02) 9561 8099.