MESA 7331 Advanced Topics in Evaluation

This course introduces students to theory, practice, and methods for evaluating systemic change. Whereas conventional evaluation draws on social science methods to evaluate discrete policies and programs, systemic approaches to evaluation draw on theory and methods from the systems and complexity sciences to support change or transformation in the face of complex issues and large-scale systems. Focal topics covered include differing rationales for and resistance to systemic change; ways to bring diverse actors and perspectives together; five phases of a systemic change process (i.e., shared vision, systems mapping, leverage points, navigating futures, and learning and adapting); and ways to evaluate the value and impact of a systemic change effort. Course materials span multiple fields (e.g., health, international development, sustainability, education), bridge academic scholarship and practical guidance, and incorporate popular media. By the end of the course, students will develop knowledge of systems and evaluation concepts and methods and apply new skills and experiences to create an original proposal to design and evaluate a systemic change initiative. Additionally, the interdisciplinary and hands-on classroom environment and peer review exercises provide opportunities to build community and shared learning. This course is useful for students seeking careers in research/evaluation or leadership/management whether in government, philanthropy, non-profits, or international organizations. Prerequisites include one or more courses in (a) research or evaluation methodology (b) an applied field or problem area within a field (e.g., educational inequality, restorative justice, elder care); and (c) professional or personal experience with societal systems in need of change (e.g., activism, leadership, teaching).