Michael Quinn Patton

Definition

Michael Quinn Patton is a prominent figure in the field of evaluation, known for his contributions to qualitative research methods and his advocacy for developmental evaluation. His work emphasizes the importance of assessing the effectiveness and impact of programs, focusing on how to gather and analyze data to inform policy and improve practices. Patton's frameworks are crucial for understanding how evaluations can provide feedback for policy development and adjustment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Michael Quinn Patton has authored several influential books on evaluation, including 'Utilization-Focused Evaluation' and 'Developmental Evaluation'.
2. His work highlights the significance of context in evaluation, arguing that understanding the environment is key to effective program assessment.
3. Patton advocates for engaging stakeholders throughout the evaluation process to enhance ownership and relevance of findings.
4. He emphasizes the need for flexibility in evaluation methods, allowing evaluators to adapt their approaches as programs evolve.
5. Patton's contributions have shaped the standards and practices of contemporary evaluation, influencing how policymakers and practitioners assess program success.

Review Questions

• How does Michael Quinn Patton's approach to Utilization-Focused Evaluation enhance the effectiveness of policy evaluations?
  • Patton's Utilization-Focused Evaluation approach enhances policy evaluations by ensuring that findings are directly relevant to the needs and interests of stakeholders. This method encourages evaluators to engage with those who will use the results, tailoring their efforts to produce actionable insights. By focusing on practical use, this approach helps ensure that evaluations contribute to informed decision-making and effective policy adjustments.
• In what ways does Developmental Evaluation support organizations facing complex challenges, according to Michael Quinn Patton's framework?
  • According to Patton, Developmental Evaluation supports organizations by providing real-time feedback in rapidly changing environments. This approach allows organizations to test ideas, adapt strategies, and learn from experiences as they implement programs. By fostering continuous learning and adaptation, Developmental Evaluation equips organizations with the tools needed to navigate uncertainty and improve outcomes effectively.
• Critically assess the impact of Michael Quinn Patton's contributions to qualitative research within the context of modern policy evaluation practices.
  • Michael Quinn Patton's contributions to qualitative research have had a profound impact on modern policy evaluation practices by elevating the importance of understanding human experiences in program assessments. His emphasis on context, stakeholder engagement, and adaptive methodologies has reshaped how evaluators approach their work, promoting a more nuanced understanding of program effectiveness. By integrating qualitative insights with traditional quantitative measures, Patton's frameworks encourage comprehensive evaluations that better inform policymakers about complex social issues.

Related terms

Utilization-Focused Evaluation: An approach developed by Patton that prioritizes the intended use of evaluation findings by stakeholders, ensuring that evaluations are relevant and useful.

Developmental Evaluation: A form of evaluation proposed by Patton that supports innovation and adaptation in complex environments, helping organizations navigate change and uncertainty.

Qualitative Research: Research methods that focus on understanding human experiences and social phenomena through non-numerical data, often emphasized in Patton's evaluation approaches.