'Bridging tools' for change: evaluating a collaborative learning network

This paper outlines the evaluation approach associated with the Learn-Nett project under the SOCRATES initiative. It describes the project, locates the role of evaluation within it and finally conceptualises the role evaluation might play in a change process. The paper argues that evaluation in these circumstances can be essentially formative but also be prompted by a search for new knowledge in the area of changing practices in learning. It identifies 'transition' as anomic and the need to develop 'provisional stability' for change to occur effectively. In such periods of change, evaluation products can act as useful 'bridging tools' which can support the development of 'provisional stability'.