Why are ethical considerations important in program evaluation?

Ethical considerations are crucial in program evaluation because they center on the protection and welfare of participants involved in the evaluation process. This encompasses a variety of rights and principles, including informed consent, confidentiality, and the right to withdraw from the study without any repercussions. By prioritizing the safety and rights of participants, evaluators can create a trustworthy environment that encourages honest and open participation.

Moreover, ethical practices help ensure that the data collected is not only valid but also representative of the participants' perspectives, contributing to the overall integrity and credibility of the evaluation findings. Therefore, focusing on participants' protection and rights aligns with fundamental ethical principles in research and evaluation methodologies, making this choice the clear and essential answer to the question.