Employing both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, empowerment evaluation is the use of evaluation concepts, techniques, and findings to foster improvement and self-determination. David M. Fetterman explores its background and theory and goes on to present the three steps of empowerment evaluation: establishing a mission statement about a program; taking stock; and charting a course for the future, while using case studies to highlight these steps in practice. Foundations of Empowerment Evaluation also covers standards for using EE; caveats and concerns; how to distinguish EE from other approaches, using the Internet as a tool and finally looks at the strengths, limitations, and conditions of empowerment evaluation.

Introduction Introducing Empowerment Evaluation as Part of the Intellectual Landscape of EvaluationBackground and Theory Exploring the Background and Theory of Empowerment Evaluation with Relevant Examples and ToolsThree Steps Presenting the Three Steps of Empowerment Evaluation and Related FacetsFour Case Examples Highlighting the Steps of Empowerment Evaluation with Four Case ExamplesA High Stakes Case Example Documenting the Utility, Credibility, and Rigor of Empowerment Evaluation in a High-Stakes Arena-AccreditationThe Standards Applying the Standards to Empowerment EvaluationCaveats Discussing Caveats and Concerns About Empowerment EvaluationA Dialogue Distinguishing Empowerment Evaluation From Other ApproachesThe World Wide Web Using the Internet as a Tool to Disseminate Empowerment Evaluation WorldwideConclusion Concluding by Speaking One¿s Truth About the Strengths, Limitations, and Conditions of Empowerment Evaluation