Evaluation

Judgment of Value Based on Ranked Criteria

Evaluation

(Judgment of Value Based on Criteria)

Definition: Assessing the value of a subject, object, or concept based on an established set of ranked criteria. The evaluation process allows for the ranking, categorization, deeper understanding, and greater appreciation of a subject relative to others of its kind.

Example: A professor might evaluate or grade a student's essay based on the following criteria, ranked by importance:

Argument Clarity (30%): Is the thesis statement clear and well-supported throughout the essay?
Depth of Analysis (25%): Does the essay explore the topic in depth with insightful analysis?
Organization (20%): Is the essay structured logically with clear transitions between ideas?
Grammar & Mechanics (15%): Are there a few grammatical, punctuation, or spelling errors?
Use of Sources (10%): Are credible sources effectively integrated and cited correctly?

Process of Evaluation

Evaluate the value or relative worth of a thing by following these five steps:

Identify the Subject
1. 1. - Identify what is being evaluated. This could be anything from a work of art, a piece of writing, an attempt to persuade an audience, a product, a policy, or even an abstract concept.
Establish & Rank Criteria
1. 1. - Define the standards or benchmarks that will be used to judge the subject. Criteria should be specific, relevant, and appropriate to the subject being evaluated.
    - Rank the criteria you have established from the most to least important considering how significantly each criterion is likely to affect the value or worth of the subject of your evaluation.
Apply the Criteria
1. 1. - Apply: The core of the evaluation process involves systematically applying the established criteria to the subject.
    - Examine: This step requires a detailed examination, where both strengths and weaknesses are considered to provide a balanced and fair evaluation.
    - Assess: Each criterion is used to assess a specific aspect of the subject, with the evaluator providing evidence and examples to support their analysis.
Form a Judgment
1. 1. - Judge: Based on the analysis, the evaluator forms an overall judgment or conclusion about the subject. This judgment is not just an opinion; it is a reasoned stance that stems from the application of the criteria.
    - Articulate: The judgment should be clearly articulated, summarizing the key findings and the evaluator's stance in a way that logically follows from the analysis.
Communicate the Evaluation
1. 1. - Present: The final step involves presenting the evaluation in a structured format. This might include an introduction that states the purpose and criteria, a body that details the analysis, and a conclusion that encapsulates the final judgment. The presentation should be clear, coherent, and persuasive, guiding the audience through the evaluative process and helping them understand the reasoning behind the judgment.

Criteria

(Standards of Judgment)

Definition: The standards, principles, or rules by which something is judged or evaluated. In academic, professional, or practical contexts, criteria help determine the quality, suitability, or success of a process, project, or performance. Criteria can be derived from commonly accepted norms, expert opinions, or the evaluator's own standards, provided they are well justified. Criteria should be specific, relevant, and appropriate to the subject being evaluated.

Categories of criteria include the following: Aesthetic, Safety, Economic, Efficiency, Process, & Moral.

Example: While grading an essay, evaluation criteria might include clarity of argument, depth of analysis, organization, grammar, and use of sources. *See also the Shanafelt Multimodal Rubric

Categories of Criteria

(Classes or Types of Evaluation Factors)

1. Aesthetic Criteria

Based on visual or sensory appeal, focusing on how something looks, feels, or presents itself. Aesthetic criteria involve evaluating beauty, style, and appearance, whether physical, artistic, or structural.

- - Partner: In choosing a spouse, this might include physical attractiveness, grooming, or a sense of style.
  - Proposal: The proposal's language should be clear, concise, and visually well-structured to enhance readability and engagement with the audience.

2. Safety Criteria

Whether something provides protection from harm, danger, or risk. It involves assessing emotional, physical, and psychological security in relation to the subject being evaluated.

Partner: In a relationship, safety criteria assess whether a partner provides emotional support, physical security, and respects boundaries.
Proposal: The solution must ensure privacy and public safety by implementing measures that protect individuals from potential harm or risk associated with the proposed changes.

3. Economic Criteria

Considerations of cost, financial resources, and economic stability. This includes evaluating financial viability, resource management, and long-term economic impact.

Partner: When choosing a life partner, economic criteria might include financial stability, spending habits, and alignment of financial goals.
Proposal: The proposed solution should demonstrate both short-term and long-term cost-effectiveness by minimizing expenses and maximizing stakeholder benefits.

4. Efficiency Criteria

How well something functions with minimal waste of time, effort, or resources. It focuses on productivity, practicality, and how smoothly a process or task can be completed.

Partner: In a relationship, this could involve how well a partner helps manage daily responsibilities or solves problems efficiently.
Proposal: The solution must minimize unnecessary delays, ensure timely results, streamlines current processes, and conserve resources while maximizing productivity.

5. Process Criteria

How well something fits into or aligns with ongoing routines, systems, or methods. It assesses whether the subject supports or enhances established processes or goals over time.

Partner: In choosing a life partner, process criteria might assess how compatible their lifestyle, routines, and long-term goals are with your own.
Proposal: The proposal should align with existing institutional procedures, allowing for a smooth integration into current systems without disrupting ongoing operations.

6. Moral Criteria

Based on ethical principles, values, and beliefs. It assesses whether the subject adheres to a particular moral or ethical standard.

Partner: In a relationship, moral criteria involve assessing whether a partner’s values, integrity, and ethical behavior align with your own beliefs.
Proposal: The proposal must adhere to ethical principles by considering the fairness and justice of its impact on all stakeholders involved.

Evaluating w/ Ranked Criteria (Example #1)

(Evaluating an Instagram Reel, TikTok, or YouTube Video)

When evaluating an Instagram Reel, TikTok, or YouTube video, ranked criteria can help provide a structured and objective analysis. Below is an example of ranked criteria that could be used, listed from most to least important.

Content Quality (Most Important)
- Content Importance: Does the video communicate a message, idea, or topic that feels meaningful, thought-provoking, or socially/culturally significant? Is the content worth the audience’s time beyond entertainment?
- Creativity: The uniqueness of the content and the creator's ability to present an idea or trend in an innovative way.
- Originality: How original is the concept? Does it offer a fresh take or perspective compared to similar videos?
Rhetorical Effectiveness for Target Audience
- Audience Tailored: How well does the video tailor its message, language, tone, and rhetorical devices to resonate with the intended audience? Does it consider the audience’s values, interests, identities, and potential biases to maximize impact and engagement?
- Audience Fit: How well does the video speak to the intended or typical audience? Does it reflect their values, interests, and humor?
- Relevance: How relevant is the content to the target audience? Does it address their specific current topics or interests?
Storytelling
- Narrative: Does the video tell a compelling story or convey a clear message within the short time frame?
- Hook and Retention: How quickly does the video capture the viewer's attention, and does it maintain interest throughout?
Quality of Production
- Video Quality: The clarity, lighting, and overall production quality of the video. Is it well-shot and edited?
- Sound and Music: The use of sound effects, music, or voice-overs. Is the audio clear, and does it enhance the content?
Relevance & Trend Alignment
- Topicality: Is the content timely? Does it tap into current events, seasonal themes, or social conversations that matter now?
- Platform Expectations: Does the video feel at home on its platform, considering its style, pacing, and tone?
- Consistency: How well does the content align with the creator’s established voice, previous content, niche, or brand?
Engagement
- Likes, Comments, and Shares: The number of likes, comments, and shares the video receives indicates its popularity and how well it resonates with the audience.
- Audience Interaction: How effectively does the video encourage viewers to interact, such as through comments or participation.
Length & Pacing (Least Important)
- Appropriate Length: Is the video suitably timed for its content? Sixty seconds is common, but shorter videos may perform better.
- Pacing: Is the pacing of the video engaging and dynamic? Or does it feel too slow or rushed?

Evaluating w/ Ranked Criteria (Example #2)

(Evaluating Visual Art)

When ranking the criteria for evaluating visual art, it's important to consider what aspects are most essential to understanding and appreciating the artwork as a whole. Here is the list of criteria ranked from most important to least important:

1. Expression & Emotion

The ability of the artwork to communicate emotions or ideas is crucial. Art often aims to evoke a response or convey a deeper meaning, making this a central aspect of its evaluation.

2. Originality

Originality is key in distinguishing the artwork from others. It reflects the artist's innovation and creativity, contributing significantly to the work's uniqueness and impact.

3. Impact & Relevance

The influence of the artwork on viewers and its relevance to contemporary issues or its significance within a historical or cultural context are vital. This criterion assesses how the piece resonates with or challenges the audience.

4. Technical Skill

Mastery of the medium and techniques is important for creating a successful piece. While not the sole focus, technical skill underpins the artist's ability to realize their vision effectively.

5. Composition

The arrangement of visual elements is essential for creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing piece. Good composition enhances the overall effectiveness and balance of the artwork.

6. Intent

Understanding the artist's intention helps in evaluating whether the artwork successfully communicates its intended message or fulfills its purpose. This can add depth to the interpretation of the piece.

7. Context

The historical, cultural, social, and personal circumstances surrounding the creation of the artwork provide valuable insights. While not always necessary for appreciation, context can deepen understanding and interpretation.

8. Aesthetic Appeal (Least Important)

Aesthetic appeal is subjective and can vary greatly from person to person. While it contributes to an artwork's immediate impact, it's often less important than the expression, originality, and depth of the piece.