Exploring training needs of educational program evaluators in the Asia-Pacific region

Training is critical for the growth of the evaluation profession as more qualified and competent individuals will be required to meet the increased demand for evaluation. This paper deals with the training needs of professionals and is based on a part of a study on the status and challenges of educational program evaluation in the Asia-Pacific region. A web-based Delphi was used with a needs assessment framework for examining the current nature of training, what should be done, and discrepancies (gaps) between the two. The results should be of value for academic training programs and those in non-academic settings.

► A Delphi study explored evaluation training needs in the Asia-Pacific region.
► University programs dominate evaluator training in the studied countries.
► The case for more involvement of professional organizations was apparent.
► A balance of theory and practice in training was highly recommended by panelists.
► Inclusion of evaluation ethics and guiding principles in training was desirable.