This book provides a contemporary and thought-provoking exploration of
the concept of practical wisdom--what it is and how it can be
incorporated into evaluation practice. It defines what practical wisdom
is, explores its roots, where it stands today, what constitutes the
"wise" evaluator, and how we can develop sound judgment in an
unpredictable and chaotic time. It brings together evaluation thought
leaders and practitioners to examine the concept of practical wisdom.
The authors' enlightening essays are interwoven with reflective strands
comprised of commentaries, examples, and new ideas added by Hurteau and
her colleagues that offer a recursive and intricate pattern of
reflection on the topic of practical wisdom.
This is a rare book because it moves beyond evaluation methodology to
explore how practical wisdom can help us develop new and better
solutions for difficult evaluation situations. It will become a standard
reference for practitioners, trainers. and teachers of evaluation
because it considers the history, ethics, and competencies that underpin
practical wisdom, and examines the ways that this untaught skill can be
applied, to do, as House says, "the right thing in the special
circumstances of performing the job."
