Emergent design evaluation: A case study

Emergent design is an evaluation approach that begins with a loose participatory framework, which is utilized to define the roles and interactions of those involved, but not to prescribe the evaluation process as a whole. This article describes an emergent design evaluation that took place at Pasadena City College. The purpose of this paper is to illustrate the applicability and utility of an emergent design evaluation, as well as illustrate the process that evolved. The article outlines the extant literature on emergent program theory and emergent design evaluation, provides an overview of the program, discusses critical points in the evaluation and program processes, and concludes with a reflection on the process.