Stufflebeam

Stufflebeam is a surname of English-language origin. It is associated with several individuals, most notably Daniel L. Stufflebeam, an American scholar recognized for his work in program evaluation.

Daniel L. Stufflebeam contributed to the development of modern evaluation theory and practice. He is best known for introducing the CIPP evaluation model, one of the most widely cited frameworks in the field. The model emphasizes using evaluation to improve programs as well as to inform decision-making.

The CIPP model stands for Context, Input, Process, and Product. It is designed as a comprehensive framework to guide evaluation across the life cycle of a program. Context evaluation helps define objectives and needs; input evaluation examines the resources and strategies proposed to meet objectives; process evaluation monitors implementation and adherence to plans; product evaluation assesses outcomes and impact. The framework supports both formative evaluation (to guide improvement) and summative evaluation (to judge effectiveness).

In practice, the CIPP model has been applied across education, government, and nonprofit sectors. It has influenced many evaluation designs and reporting formats, and it has contributed to structured decision-making within organizations. Critics have noted that the model can be broad and challenging to operationalize in complex settings, and questions have been raised about maintaining methodological rigor while pursuing utility for decision-makers. Despite these debates, Stufflebeam’s approach remains a foundational reference in program evaluation literature.