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Research Psychology and the Field of Evaluation

In this field, research psychologists embark on evaluation of programmes designed to benefit the human condition, rather than those designed for other purposes, such as increasing profits or amassing influence and power. Thus, they focus on intervention endeavours aimed at enhancing the quality of human life and the welfare of communities. Like any other evaluation researcher, a research psychologist use evaluation to provide answers to a range of questions including (as stated by Rossi and Freeman,1993, p.5):

What is the nature and scope of the problem requiring new, expanded, or modified social programs?
Where is it located, and who does it affect?
What feasible interventions are likely to ameliorate the problem significantly?
What are the appropriate target populations for a particular intervention?
Is the intervention reaching its target population?
Is the intervention being implemented in ways envisioned?
Is it effective?
How much does it cost?
What are its costs relative to its effectiveness and benefits?

Potter and Kruger (2001) hold that programme evaluation offers various ways of bringing the psychologist out of the laboratory, the lecture theatre, or the consulting room. It is practical, hands-on work, dealing with real-life situations. Programme evaluation involves working with qualitative and quantitative data, but also with people-negotiating the parameters of each evaluation, interviewing stakeholders and facilitating the development of skills and new understanding. Indeed, it thus appears as Potter (1999, p.225) observes that this "is not just research for its own sake, but research that makes a difference!

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