International Perspectives: Similarities and Differences Around the Globe
In: New directions for evaluation: a publication of the American Evaluation Association, Band 2014, Heft 144, S. 75-87
ISSN: 1534-875X
AbstractNeeds are not uniquely American. From Johannesburg and Helsinki to Cairo and Santiago, they are assessed around the world in a variety of contexts and conditions. Needs assessments often cross borders and cultural boundaries, attempting to systematically assist communities, organizations, and people in making better informed decisions. This complexity can improve the results of an assessment, while at the same time presenting the assessor and the methods used with many practical challenges. In response, the focus of this chapter has to do with successfully conducting needs assessments in diverse international contexts. Offering practical tips, the foundation of the chapter provides real‐world guidance for handling many of the obstacles faced in needs assessments.