Cultivating a Community of Practice Through Program Evaluation Coursework

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18357/cjpe.2026.40.1.14

Keywords:

communities of practice, evaluator competencies, evaluator education, practicum, relfective practice, novice evaluators

Abstract

This Practice Note explores the use of a Communities of Practice (CoP) framework as a tool for designing evaluator education in higher education contexts. Using two graduate-level courses focused on program evaluation, we illustrate how CoP principles—mutual engagement, joint enterprise, and shared repertoire—were implemented to support the development of competencies aligned with the American Evaluation Association (AEA) Evaluator Competencies. Drawing on qualitative data from reflective journals, self-assessments, and focus groups, we highlight how CoP fostered collaborative learning, professional identity formation, and the practical application of skills. While the findings affirm the effectiveness of CoP in bridging theory and practice, they also point to areas for refinement to enhance future evaluator education.

References

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Cover of The Canadian Journal of Program Evaluation / La Revue canadienne d’évaluation de programme, Volume 40, Issue 1 (Spring 2026). Blue gradient background with large “40!” graphic. Bilingual text lists sections: Articles, Roots and Relations / Nos racines et nos liens (thematic section), Research & Practice Notes, and Book Reviews. Includes ISSN 0834‑1516, a QR code, UVic Libraries logo, and journal website link.

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Published

2026-05-21

How to Cite

Ayoo, S., & He, Y. (2026). Cultivating a Community of Practice Through Program Evaluation Coursework. Canadian Journal of Program Evaluation, 40(1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.18357/cjpe.2026.40.1.14

Issue

Vol. 40 No. 1 (2026): Spring

Section

Research and Practice Notes

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Copyright (c) 2026 Sandra Ayoo, Ye He

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