most appropriate method requires thought and careful consideration, the selection process is
also shaped by a number of decisions that have already been made. The type of evaluation
being considered (i.e., front-end, formative or summative) will determine, to some extent, the most
appropriate data collection tool(s). Likewise, the level of evaluation being conducted (e.g., learning,
application, results), the audiences involved (e.g., children vs. adults, casual visitors vs. organized
groups), and the amount of resources available (e.g., time, money) will all help determine
which tools should be used. Each data collection strategy comes with strengths, weaknesses, and a
set of considerations.
The following table summarizes the purpose, advantages, and challenges of using nine different data
collection tools when conducting evaluations. Remember that since data gathering tools are developed for a specific purpose and project, they rarely represent a pure form. For example, a survey or interview may include test items. A case study often incorporates observation, document review, and in-depth interviews.
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