Powell (2006) outline numerous goals of evaluation research, including accounting for use of limited resources, increasing visibility of organizations, and to provide feedback to staff. With these goals in mind, organizations can employ one of the three methods previously discussed in the course: quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods.

In terms of quantitative evaluation research, while experimental or survey designs can still be used, due to the dynamic nature of an on-going programme, it can often be difficult to establish and maintain control variables, resulting in an inability to determine authoritatively sources of variation in performance. Survey methods can identify trends but are less than compelling methods for identifying causal relationships which could be much more convincing arguments to maintain or increase funding in today’s fiscal climate of frugality.

Similarly to summative research, qualitative research can provide a more holistic approach to evaluating social programmes. Powell (2006) points out that they can provide subjective views of dynamic programmes with great flexibility without being unduly intrusive to participants; however, he cautions that qualitative research, being subjective, is not able to provide objective data and results may or may not be representative or generalizable.

When considering evaluating a social programme’s effectiveness and making improvements, it would therefore seem natural that a sequential quantitative-qualitative approach might be appropriate; first, a quantitative survey design to assess performance, identify areas of potential improvement or increased efficiency, and then a qualitative portion to explore feelings and identify diverse potential solutions.

Powell, R. R. (2006). Evaluation research: An overview. Library Trends. 55(1):102-20.