What is an Evaluation Case Competition?

Teams of students are presented with a case about the evaluation of a program or policy. They prepare an analysis of the case and develop recommendations for action. A panel of judges reviews and ranks the teams’ submissions. Award winners are announced.

Who organizes the Competitions?

The competitions are set up by evaluation enthusiasts who want to provide students with an opportunity to experience the intellectual excitement that comes from responding as a team to a program evaluation challenge in a short time frame.

What does it take to set up a Competition?

The organizers set a competition date, establish eligibility rules, design a registration form, develop a challenging evaluation case, organize a panel of judges, and then promote the competition tin universities and evaluation societies.

How does a typical Competition unfold?

• Students organize a team and complete an online registration form.

• Competitions may be virtual or in-person. For a typical virtual competition, on the day of the event the registered teams download the evaluation case.

• Within a prescribed time frame, usually ranging from six to nine hours, the students prepare a written analysis and upload their submission.

• Submissions are forwarded to judges for assessment and ranking.

• Winners are announced.

• The teams are sent feedback from the judges.

• Students may receives a certificate of participation.

What are the benefits of Evaluation Case Competitions ?

Students will learn more about program evaluation and teamwork. Their interest in evaluation will increase. Some will be inspired to pursue careers as evaluation professionals.

How many Evaluation Case Competitions are there?

There have been national evaluation case competitions in Cameroon, Canada, the Czech Republic, India, Mongolia, Niger, Uganda, and the United States. There is a world competition open to teams from all countries on the planet.