This seminar begins with a description of evaluation research and its increasing relevance in an era where economy, efficiency and effectiveness are integral to the delivery of public sector services. The three major types of evaluations are then considered in some detail—the conceptualization and design of intervention; monitoring program evaluation and assessment of impact and efficiency. A major concentration in the course will be design and critical analysis of impact assessment, also known as summative evaluation. The evaluation process does not, however, take place in a vacuum and its value as a research output and relevance to the policy making process will often be dictated by the stakeholders directly or indirectly affected. Engaging the public, consumers of services or program participants in the evaluation will, therefore, be a key focus of the course.