Wadsworth, Yoland

(b. 1951, Melbourne, Australia). Ph.D., B.A., Monash University, Melbourne.

Wadsworth has contributed to evaluation theory in a number of ways, including the two approaches to evaluation called open inquiry and audit review; the concept of multireference groups (commonly referred to as stakeholders) and the metaphor of them “coming to the table” together in evaluation activity; the critical reference group perspective as a method for guiding evaluation design, questions, theoretical analyses, problem-solving formulations, and applied trial results; and moving beyond the positivist or relativist conundrums.

Her contributions to evaluation practice include pioneering the use of fourth-generation and fifth-generation evaluation, including the use of dialogic and multilogic crossover designs (e.g., exchange of evaluative material between stakeholders and the iterative generation of further evaluative material and new practice and policy); ...