For this week's post I want to discuss the importance of standard A8 Communication and Reporting (Yarborough et al, 2011). Two of the most important aspects of evaluation have to be communication and reporting, this being because without reporting of the findings, what is the point of the study? Communication is such an important factor because without appropriate and truthful communication the purpose and integrity of the study can be compromised. When we do not allow for the flow of communication between researchers and stakeholders to be free and open, we allow for the potential of misunderstandings and compromised values to take root. 

As a future researcher I would insist that communication between myself, other investigators and stakeholders be open. To allow stakeholders the freedom and trust to communicate with the investigators we find ourselves in the midst of trust and informed data. I really appreciate how Yarborough et al (2011) explain how this standard is necessary to valid and insightful research and assessment. 

As a professor the ideas of communication and reporting are never far from my mind. I am evaluated regularly by my students. I emphasis how communication between myself and them builds trust on both sides and allows for us to work cohesively as a team. Without their feedback and honest reporting I would not be able to grow as an instructor. Without my feedback and reporting via their grades they would not be able to grow as future practitioners. Each of these parts of the process of learning is vital to the continued success of our shared profession. 

References
Yarbrough, D. B., Shulha, L. M., Hopson, R. K., & Caruthers, F. A. (2011). The program evaluation standards: A           guide for evaluators and evaluation users (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.