The Evaluator Handbook is IABCET’s reference guide for individuals participating in evaluation, assessment, and review activities. This evaluator handbook complements the applicable standards, criteria, and accreditation process by describing the general expectations, responsibilities, and approach evaluators are expected to follow.
This handbook should be read together with the applicable IABCET standards, criteria, policies, and procedures. Where a formal requirement differs from general guidance described here, the applicable formal requirement should be followed.
Purpose of This Evaluator Handbook
Consistent, well-informed evaluation is central to credible accreditation. This evaluator handbook is intended to help evaluators approach their responsibilities with clarity, consistency, and appropriate independence — supporting fair, evidence-based accreditation decisions across every accreditation pathway.
Who This Handbook Is For
This handbook is written for individuals who participate in reviewing applications, evaluating evidence, conducting assessments, or otherwise supporting IABCET’s accreditation review process. It is separate from the Accreditation Handbook, which is written for organizations preparing for or maintaining accreditation.
General Evaluator Responsibilities
- Apply the applicable standards and criteria consistently — evaluations should be based on the published Accreditation Standards and Accreditation Criteria, not on personal preference or unrelated considerations.
- Review evidence thoroughly — evaluators are expected to review submitted documentation, evidence, and supporting materials carefully before forming conclusions.
- Document findings clearly — evaluation records should clearly connect findings to the applicable requirement and the evidence reviewed.
- Maintain confidentiality — information reviewed during an evaluation should be handled responsibly and in accordance with applicable IABCET policies.
- Communicate professionally — evaluators should engage with applicant organizations respectfully and constructively, whether findings are favorable or identify areas needing improvement.
Independence and Impartiality in Evaluation
Evaluators are expected to approach each review independently and impartially. Where a personal, professional, financial, or organizational interest could affect — or appear to affect — an evaluator’s impartiality, that circumstance should be disclosed and managed in accordance with IABCET’s Conflict of Interest Policy.
Evaluators should also review the broader expectations described in Independence & Impartiality and Ethics & Professional Conduct. For general context on how quality-assurance evaluators are expected to operate across the wider accreditation field, resources from bodies such as INQAAHE can be a useful external reference point.
The Evaluation Process at a Glance
- Review the applicable accreditation pathway, standards, and criteria before beginning an evaluation.
- Review the organization’s submitted application and supporting evidence.
- Assess the evidence against the applicable standards and criteria.
- Identify areas of strength and areas that may not yet meet applicable requirements.
- Document findings clearly, connecting each finding to the relevant standard, criterion, and evidence reviewed.
- Submit findings through the applicable IABCET review process, which feeds into the accreditation decision.
For more on how evaluation findings connect to a final outcome, see Accreditation Decision and Assessment & Evaluation.
Evaluating Different Accreditation Pathways
Evaluation considerations may differ depending on whether the review concerns an institution, a program, or a continuing education provider. Evaluators should confirm which pathway applies and review the requirements specific to it.
Reaccreditation Reviews
Evaluators conducting a reaccreditation review should also confirm continued compliance with applicable requirements over time, rather than treating the review as a repeat of the initial evaluation. See Reaccreditation for more information.
This Evaluator Handbook Does Not Replace Formal Requirements
This evaluator handbook is intended to support consistent, well-informed evaluation practice. It should be read together with the applicable standards, criteria, policies, procedures, and other formal IABCET requirements. Where a formal requirement differs from general guidance described here, the applicable formal requirement should be followed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who uses the Evaluator Handbook?
Individuals who review applications, evaluate evidence, or conduct assessments as part of IABCET’s accreditation process.
How is the Evaluator Handbook different from the Accreditation Handbook?
The Accreditation Handbook is written for organizations preparing for or maintaining accreditation. The Evaluator Handbook is written for the individuals who evaluate those organizations.
How does IABCET address evaluator conflicts of interest?
Through disclosure, review, management, or recusal procedures described in the Conflict of Interest Policy.