Using Mixed Methods in Monitoring and Evaluation: Experiences from International Development

30 Pages Posted: 20 Apr 2016

See all articles by Michael Bamberger

Michael Bamberger

affiliation not provided to SSRN

Vijayendra Rao

World Bank - Development Research Group (DECRG)

Michael Woolcock

World Bank - Development Research Group (DECRG); Harvard University - Kennedy School of Government; Harvard University - Harvard Kennedy School (HKS)

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Date Written: March 1, 2010

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of the various ways in which mixing qualitative and quantitative methods could add value to monitoring and evaluating development projects. In particular it examines how qualitative methods could address some of the limitations of randomized trials and other quantitative impact evaluation methods; it also explores the importance of examining "process" in addition to "impact" , distinguishing design from implementation failures, and the value of mixed methods in the real-time monitoring of projects. It concludes by suggesting topics for future research -- including the use of mixed methods in constructing counterfactuals, and in conducting reasonable evaluations within severe time and budget constraints.

Keywords: Poverty Monitoring & Analysis, Scientific Research & Science Parks, Science Education, Poverty Impact Evaluation, Statistical & Mathematical Sciences

Suggested Citation

Bamberger, Michael and Rao, Vijayendra and Woolcock, Michael, Using Mixed Methods in Monitoring and Evaluation: Experiences from International Development (March 1, 2010). World Bank Policy Research Working Paper No. 5245, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1578113

Michael Bamberger (Contact Author)

affiliation not provided to SSRN ( email )

Vijayendra Rao

World Bank - Development Research Group (DECRG) ( email )

1818 H. Street, N.W.
MSN3-311
Washington, DC 20433
United States
202-458-8034 (Phone)
202-522-1153 (Fax)

HOME PAGE: http://vijayendrarao.org

Michael Woolcock

World Bank - Development Research Group (DECRG) ( email )

1818 H. Street, N.W.
Mailstop MC3-306
Washington, DC 20433
United States
202-473-9258 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://econ.worldbank.org/staff/mwoolcock

Harvard University - Kennedy School of Government ( email )

Littauer-G-11G
Cambridge, MA 02138
United States
617-495-0911 (Phone)

HOME PAGE: http://ksgfaculty.harvard.edu/michael_woolcock

Harvard University - Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) ( email )

79 John F. Kennedy Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
United States

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