The document discusses different approaches to evaluation in e-learning, including positivist and realist evaluation. It argues that realist evaluation focuses on understanding contexts, mechanisms, and outcomes, rather than simply determining what works. Realist evaluation aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that produce particular outcomes in certain contexts. By taking a multi-theory, multi-method approach and cumulating contextualized descriptions of mechanisms and outcomes, realist evaluation can provide objective understanding of educational institutions and technologies.
13. Modes of reasoning in evaluation P P P P P reality U knowledge Induction (no theory approach) Deduction (single theory approach) P P P P P U U U U U knowledge outcomes reality retroduction
17. Cumulating Context, Mechanisms and Outcomes… Theory Data abstraction specification C M O C M O C M O C M O C M O C M O C M O C M O C M O C M O C M O Programmes Middle-range theory O O O Project outcomes projects C M O Methodology
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