A Fuzzy Inference System for Meta-Evaluation

This paper presents a new methodology for meta-evaluation that makes use of fuzzy sets and fuzzy logic concepts. It comprehends a data collection instrument and a hierarchical fuzzy inference system. The advantages of the proposed system are: (i) the instrument, which allows intermediate answers; (ii) the inference process ability to adapt to specific needs; (ii) transparency, through the use of linguistic rules that helps both the understanding and the discussion of the whole process. The rules are based on guidelines established by the Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation and also represent the view of experts. The system can provide support to evaluators that may lack experience in meta-evaluation, which is the case in some developing countries. A case study is presented as a validation of the proposed methodology.