Stakeholder evaluation: a model for decision making in problem-based learning.

Evaluation of new programmes in education are essential if one is to monitor the extent to which implementation is occurring in the manner that programme developers intended. This paper describes the use of a stakeholder approach in the evaluation of a nursing programme which uses problem-based teaching and learning strategies in curriculum implementation. Some background to the course is provided with a brief description of problem-based learning methodology. The central focus of the paper is on provision of an overview of a decision-making model of evaluation incorporating the stakeholder approach. It is suggested that this approach provided comprehensive feedback on the course implementation process, allowing for decision-making in relation to subsequent maintenance or modification of elements of a pre-service nursing programme.