Lessons from an Evaluation Experience: The School Wide Improvement Model (SWIM)

Abstract

The role of evaluation is beginning to be recognized in South African research. Researchers believe that programs and projects can be improved only if proper evaluation is conducted. This paper looks at a model developed after reading Carol Weiss’ Theory of Change. Not only did the researchers use Weiss, they also employed the work of other evaluation experts such as Patton, McDonald and Babbie. They utilized these theories when they were evaluating the Secondary School Intervention Program (SSIP) in South Africa. The researchers discussed their findings in an earlier study (2013). This specific work though explicates a developed model suggested for the improvement of the SSIP. The researchers demonstrate the complexity of evaluation and illustrate a model that has a potential influence on policy and practice, both of which are aspects emphasized by Weiss whose work is cited lavishly here. Through this (SWIM) model various aspects are explicated to show how one can overcome some of the potential challenges in program improvement.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n20p1467