Who is typically considered a stakeholder in program evaluation?

The answer is focused on the broad definition of stakeholders in program evaluation. Stakeholders are any individuals or groups that have an interest in the program's outcomes, which can include a wide range of participants. This encompasses program implementers, beneficiaries, funders, community members, and even external evaluators. Their perspectives and evaluations are crucial, as they can provide valuable insights into the program's effectiveness and impact, influencing future program decisions and improvements.

In contrast, defining stakeholders too narrowly, as seen in the other choices, limits the understanding of who can influence or be affected by the program. For instance, only considering program implementers excludes essential insights from beneficiaries or the broader community. Focusing solely on government agencies dismisses non-governmental stakeholders whose interests may significantly affect the program. Lastly, acknowledging only those individuals who are not directly involved does not recognize the importance of those directly engaged in or impacted by the program. This broad stakeholder definition helps ensure that the evaluation process is comprehensive and inclusive, ultimately leading to better outcomes and recommendations.