Chronique d’une évaluation ratée

Abstract

The evaluation presented in this article combines a number of the problems outlined in a textbook example: confusion between “control” and “evaluation,” insufficient resources, overly ambitious goals, and tension between stakeholders, a situation that led to disregard for all the principles enumerated in the French evaluation society charter: pluralism, distance, competency, respect for individuals, transparency, responsibility, and opportunity. The lessons learned described in this article highlight the need to follow those principles, both on the part of the agency commissioning the evaluation and the evaluator, the importance of ethical issues, and the fragile balance that allows evaluations to be implemented. Finally, the author questions the usefulness of recourse to arbitration proceedings.