Evaluating an artifact in design science research

Abstract

In this paper, we describe the iterative evaluation of an artifact developed through the application of Design Science Research (DSR) methodology in a resource constrained environment. In the DSR process the aspect of evaluation is often done insouciantly. There are multiple reasons for this, one being the dearth in available practice based examples. The purpose of this paper is then to contribute to a broader understanding of evaluation as part of the DSR process through the presentation of the practical application of evaluation activities based on program theory in the DSR process of Peffers et al. The evaluation and iterative improvement of the Teacher Professional Development Course as part of the ICT for Rural Education is presented as the artifact which was evaluated. This example from practice can contribute towards an enhanced understanding of the evaluation of DSR artifacts and the contribution of program theory during both the ex ante and ex post part of the development.