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The Sociological Roots of Utilization-Focused Evaluation

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Abstract

Utilization-focused evaluation is widely recognized as one of the most influential approaches in the evaluation profession. What is not widely recognized is that the approach is fundamentally applied sociology. Six particular sociological specializations have influenced my evaluation perspective and practice: applied sociology, sociology of knowledge, diffusion of innovations, sociological perspectives on power and conflict, organizational sociology, and qualitative methods. International and comparative sociology has also been important in my evaluation career and practice.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Utilization-Focused Evaluation, Saint Paul, MN, USA

    Michael Quinn Patton

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  1. Michael Quinn Patton
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Correspondence to Michael Quinn Patton.

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Patton, M.Q. The Sociological Roots of Utilization-Focused Evaluation. Am Soc 46, 457–462 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12108-015-9275-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12108-015-9275-8

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