Course Overview

Developmental Evaluation (DE) helps teams guide innovation in complex, fast-changing environments. As organizations respond to challenges like public health crises and climate disruption, DE provides practical ways to navigate systems change and transformation. In practice, it supports timely decision making by tracking what is emerging and surfacing patterns early. Because of this, teams can course-correct while still staying anchored to long-term direction.

Systems thinking and complexity concepts shape DE’s approach to evidence and learning. However, the work stays grounded in a set of clear principles that keep values aligned with action. Rather than producing findings for a report at the end, DE supports the day-to-day choices that shape an initiative as it evolves. For example, it helps practitioners anticipate key decision points and gather the right evidence at the right time. Ultimately, the goal is simple: make learning usable while change is still underway.

In this workshop, our intergenerational team shares lessons from implementing and adapting DE across diverse contexts, from local efforts to global initiatives. Along the way, we name what worked and what did not, since both generate practical insight. In addition, we introduce a new framework designed to make DE more accessible for emerging evaluators and for partners who co-create the evaluation process. To support that learning, the course draws on the second edition of Developmental Evaluation, authored by the workshop presenters.

What You Will Learn

By the end of this course, participants will:

• Explain when developmental evaluation fits best, including its strengths and limitations.
• Apply developmental evaluation principles in complex, adaptive initiatives.
• Use the ADAPT framework to structure and guide developmental evaluation work.
• Build cultural responsiveness and evaluative thinking into day-to-day practice.

Course Format

We deliver this course through four live, instructor-led online modules (or two days in person). Throughout the program, participants engage in interactive discussion, real-world examples, reflection exercises, and applied practice. After completing all modules, participants receive a certificate of completion.

Modules Overview

Module 1: Developmental Evaluation History, Purpose and Niche. 

Evaluation design and uses are driven by purpose and position. In this module, participants will learn how DE emerged and how it has evolved from a narrow niche to general relevance and application worldwide.

Module 2: The ADAPT Frame

The ADAPT framework makes DE more accessible for new and emerging evaluators. At the same time, it supports partners who co-create evaluation work. ADAPT is a mnemonic that highlights essential success factors our team has identified through practice. During the session, we walk through each dimension and show how it strengthens implementation for both new and experienced evaluators.

In addition, participants explore how to describe and position DE among other evaluation approaches. That way, decision-makers and potential users can assess whether DE fits their information needs. Finally, the module highlights how DE can amplify and empower diverse voices when teams design the work intentionally.

Module 3: Developmental Evaluation Principles

Developmental evaluation is principles-based.  The seven principles guide the context-specific conduct of DE. Participants will practice applying the principles in small groups.

Module 4: Opportunities for Practice

The final module is practice-based. In this module, participants will work through DE cases and exercises to apply their learning. Then, the group will share insights and generate effective practices through discussion and reflection.

Who Should Attend

This course is ideal for:

• Evaluators looking to expand and enhance their capacity to evaluate developmentally
• Evaluation team leads, managers and commissioners of evaluation
• Anyone engaged in adaptive and innovative contexts and challenges.

Prerequisites

No prior facilitation experience is required.

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