Offering Graduate Evaluation Degrees Online: Comparing Student Engagement in Two Canadian Programs

This practice note describes and explores the experiences and lessons learned as we engaged learners in two online graduate evaluation programs: the University of Victoria’s Graduate Certificate and Diploma in Evaluation Program, offered since fall 2011, and Carleton University’s Graduate Diploma in Public Policy and Program Evaluation (DPPPE), offered online since fall 2016. Both programs are delivered to maximize the geographic accessibility of graduate evaluation education within and outside of Canada. While each program uses different teaching and learning strategies, four lessons are common to the two programs: set and meet (or exceed) clearly stated student expectations, set and then model a respectful and inclusive tone in online discussions, stretch online discussions by taking advantage of student expertise and experience, and use adult-oriented and rigorous teaching and learning methods that engage mature and mid-career learners.