Informing the Discussion on Evaluator Training

This classification study examines evaluators’ coursework training as a way of understanding evaluation practice. Data regarding courses that span methods and evaluation topics were collected from evaluation practitioners. Using latent class analysis, we establish four distinct classes of evaluator course-taking patterns: quantitative, evaluation/qualitative, general research/quantitative, and general research. Results highlight the importance of professional development as a mode for learning evaluation-specific information.