Networked Based Evaluation: ArtsSmarts Inquiry Model

Abstract

There are many handbooks on research and evaluation that are useful to read but difficult to implement in complex networked situations. This paper describes the ArtsSmarts Inquiry Model (AIM), which is founded on action research principles, and allows for networks of partners to conduct program evaluations. The AIM emerged from a special research project funded by the Canadian Council on Learning as a method of increasing research capacity within ArtsSmarts, a non-profit organization that facilitates relationships between artists and teachers in the classroom. Because ArtsSmarts is based on partnerships with distributed capacity, the research framework had to be flexible, while providing a structure with a universal core to facilitate the sharing of stories. This paper outlines the development process, the design of the framework, and some of the reflections from participating partners.