The changing landscape of evaluation in Australasia, and in the world more generally, requires us to ‘add value' to decision making about programs, policies and services through developing and assessing new and alternative procedures for evaluation. There are also particular evaluation knowledge and competencies which enhance the understanding and effectiveness of those involved with evaluation. It is this orientation to innovation and training which underpins the AES 2008 Perth Conference.

The three sub-themes are designed to sharpen the focus of the Conference:

• Value for Whom? provides a reminder that effective evaluation is ‘audience driven' and invites us to consider whose interests an evaluation might serve, will serve and should serve;

• Whose Values? questions the value basis upon which recommendations and program decisions will be made, and indicates that this should be a carefully considered decision in evaluation; and

• Optimising Value emphasises that evaluation inevitably involves ‘trade-offs', in both the conduct of an evaluation and the utilization of the information obtained, and invites consideration of how the needs of the various program stakeholders might best be served.

The resolution of these issues has significant implications for the conduct and utility of every evaluation. Presentations which address one or more of them, either directly or indirectly, will be welcome.

Proposals for conference presentations and workshops should address issues of theory, method or practice in evaluation related to one or more of these sub-themes. To encourage diversity and enhance relevance, proposals on other aspects of evaluation will also be accepted.

KEY DATES

• Abstract Submission Deadline 31 March 2008

• Early Bird Registration 31 July 2008

• Pre-conference workshops 8 - 9 September 2008

• Conference 10 - 12 September 2008

For further information please visit the conference website: click here