Self-Assessment Variables as a Source of Information in the Evaluation
of Intervention Programs: A Theoretical and Methodological Framework
Abstract
The article discusses the incorporation of individuals’ assessments
regarding the effect of intervention program on themselves as a source
of information in commonly used quantitative program evaluation methods.
The incorporation of Self-Assessment Variables (SAV) into
the evaluation process enables the researcher to utilize the information
contained in SAV while utilizing other available sources of
information as well (such as administrative data). The analysis is based
on the assumption that individuals possess valuable and unique
information which they employ before self-selection into a program. The
theory of planned behavior is used as a framework for examining
different aspects of integrating SAV in program evaluation. The
article elaborates on the integration of SAV into the matching
method, and on the possible advantages of that approach. In addition,
the article discusses different aspects of the process of eliciting
SAV from individuals. Finally, the article outlines possible
directions for future research.