Michael Quinn Patton

Definition

Michael Quinn Patton is a prominent figure in the field of evaluation, known for his contributions to qualitative research and the development of utilization-focused evaluation. His work emphasizes the importance of context and stakeholder involvement in evaluation processes, making him a significant influence in arts-based research methodologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Michael Quinn Patton's work has shaped the landscape of evaluation theory, particularly through his emphasis on how evaluations can be designed to meet the specific needs of users.
2. His book 'Utilization-Focused Evaluation' provides guidelines for conducting evaluations that directly address the needs and interests of stakeholders.
3. Patton advocates for incorporating qualitative methods into evaluations to capture complex realities and understand deeper contexts, which aligns well with arts-based research.
4. He encourages evaluators to consider the cultural context and the values of participants, ensuring that evaluations are sensitive to different perspectives and experiences.
5. Patton's influence extends beyond traditional evaluation; he has helped integrate creative approaches into research, enhancing engagement and understanding among diverse audiences.

Review Questions

• How does Michael Quinn Patton's concept of utilization-focused evaluation enhance the relevance of arts-based research?
  • Michael Quinn Patton's concept of utilization-focused evaluation enhances the relevance of arts-based research by ensuring that the evaluation process is tailored to meet the specific needs of its stakeholders. By emphasizing the importance of context and user engagement, evaluators can create assessments that are not only informative but also actionable. This approach allows researchers in arts-based fields to gather insights that resonate with participants and audiences, ultimately leading to more impactful outcomes.
• In what ways does Patton's advocacy for qualitative methods contribute to the effectiveness of arts-based research?
  • Patton's advocacy for qualitative methods contributes to the effectiveness of arts-based research by promoting a deeper understanding of human experiences and emotions through non-numerical data. By integrating interviews, storytelling, and creative expressions into evaluations, researchers can capture rich narratives that reveal insights about participants' lives. This qualitative lens aligns with the goals of arts-based research, as it values creativity and expression as vital components in understanding complex social issues.
• Evaluate the impact of Michael Quinn Patton's principles on the evolution of participatory evaluation practices in arts-based research.
  • Michael Quinn Patton's principles have significantly influenced the evolution of participatory evaluation practices within arts-based research by fostering collaborative approaches that prioritize stakeholder engagement. By encouraging evaluators to involve participants in every stage of the evaluation process, from design to interpretation, Patton's framework supports a more inclusive understanding of artistic impacts. This shift not only empowers participants but also enriches the evaluation findings, making them more reflective of diverse perspectives and enhancing their applicability in real-world contexts.

Related terms

Utilization-Focused Evaluation: An approach to evaluation that prioritizes the intended use of evaluation findings by stakeholders, ensuring that the evaluation is relevant and actionable.

Qualitative Research: A method of inquiry that focuses on understanding human experiences and social phenomena through non-numerical data, often involving interviews, observations, and arts-based methods.

Participatory Evaluation:

An evaluation approach that actively involves stakeholders in the evaluation process, promoting collaboration and shared decision-making to enhance relevance and use.