This unit will develop your knowledge and understanding of generic research and evaluation tools. It will give you the information you need to develop skills in identifying and applying quality educational research and evaluation, gaining an overview of the role of evaluation in the field of education. In this unit, you will cover:

  • Features and purposes of educational evaluation: definition, goals, and forms
  • Strategies and activities in evaluation: measurement, assessment, reporting
  • Elements of educational evaluations: stakeholders, design, method, analysis, use of results
  • Differences between evaluation outputs and outcomes
  • The good, the bad, and the destructive in educational evaluation
  • The role of context in evaluation: settings, roles and audiences
  • The influence and effects of evaluation on the field of education
  • Hallmarks of effective evaluations
  • Functions of evaluation vs research.

Knowledge of evaluation theory is combined with case studies and scenario-based activities to provide you with the skills you need to effectively use quality evaluation and research as a part of your professional decision making.


SCU assessor, Dr Brad Shipway on the Education Investigation unit

Learning outcomes

  • Understand the history, current role and impact of evaluation in the field of education.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the constituent elements of an educational evaluation, and how they may be implemented to enhance professional decision-making.
  • Identify and apply the elements of effective evaluation in response to key contextual elements in a variety of educational situations.

Assessment

You are assessed according to the following three components, each with its own weighted value against your overall result:

  • Discussion board: 5%
  • Case study: 45%
  • Evaluation Plan: 50%.

Courses

You can study this unit as part of the Master of Education.   Please note, unit structure and content are subject to change. Contact your SCU Online student advisor on 1300 863 819 for more information based on your particular circumstances.