Course Overview

This interactive course introduces participants to Appreciative Evaluation, a strengths-based approach that integrates Appreciative Inquiry principles into every stage of the evaluation process. Grounded in the research behind Appreciative Inquiry and positive psychology, the course explores how an appreciative lens can inform evaluation design, data collection, analysis, and reporting. The result is a more empowering, participatory, and action-oriented evaluation experience that builds on what works.

The course combines conceptual depth with hands-on practice. Participants will explore the theoretical foundations and practical applications of Appreciative Evaluation through experiential learning, case studies, and small group exercises. They will examine how Appreciative Inquiry can shift evaluation from a deficit-focused model to one that emphasizes assets, learning, and better outcomes.

What You Will Learn

Participants will gain experience in:

• Applying the core principles, concepts, and assumptions of Appreciative Inquiry within evaluation practice
• Using appreciative processes to develop evaluation questions, indicators, and data collection instruments
• Designing and conducting appreciative interviews, surveys, and focus groups
• Analyzing data through an appreciative lens, including data collected through traditional methods
• Communicating findings in ways that highlight strengths, support learning, and honor stakeholder contributions

Course Format

This course is delivered in four 3-hour virtual, instructor-led modules (or 2 days in-person). Participants who complete all modules will receive a certificate of completion.

Module Breakdown

Module 1: Overview of Appreciative Evaluation

This module introduces Appreciative Inquiry as an organizational development methodology and explores how it informs evaluation practice. Participants learn the core principles, models, and assumptions that underpin Appreciative Inquiry. Through an experiential case study, they connect these ideas to evaluation and practice the first phases of the appreciative process. The module also examines both the benefits and challenges of applying appreciative approaches in evaluation contexts.

Module 2: Appreciative Evaluation Design – Focusing the Evaluation and Organizing Data Collection

Appreciative Evaluation begins at the outset of the evaluation and informs all phases, from design to reporting. In this module, participants will explore the third phase of Appreciative Inquiry and learn how to apply appreciative techniques to focus the evaluation and shape data collection strategies. Through small group work and case studies, participants will practice developing appreciative evaluation questions and indicators and will learn how to reframe traditional indicators into appreciative ones.

Module 3: Appreciative Data Collection

Data collection is essential to capturing both qualitative and quantitative insights that inform evaluation findings. In this module, participants will learn how to design data collection instruments—such as interview guides, focus group protocols, and surveys—that reflect appreciative principles. The session explores the structure and flow of appreciative questioning, managing resistance in the field, and key competencies for conducting appreciative evaluations. Through small group exercises, participants will practice appreciative interviews and reflect on the kinds of data that emerge from strengths-focused approaches.

Module 4: Data Analysis and Appreciative Reporting

Appreciative Evaluation enhances not only data collection but also the learning that occurs through analysis and reporting. This module addresses how to interpret and analyze data gathered using appreciative methods, as well as how to apply appreciative principles to data collected through conventional approaches. Participants will explore strategies for triangulation and reporting that honor the data, present findings constructively, and communicate challenges in ways that promote learning and growth. The module includes examples of appreciative reporting and guided exercises to strengthen participants’ own reporting skills.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for:

• Evaluators seeking to integrate strengths-based and participatory approaches into their work
• Learning professionals interested in evaluation approaches that support adaptation and use
• Organizational development practitioners working at the intersection of learning and evaluation
• Program staff or managers involved in designing or managing evaluations

Prerequisites:

There are no prerequisites for this offering. Familiarity with evaluation concepts and qualitative methods is helpful but not required. All course materials, case studies, and exercises will be provided.