Some Benefits of Integrating Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Program Evaluation, with Illustrations

Abstract

The integration of quantitative and qualitative methods within a single evaluation has synergistic effects in the three major phases of design, data collection, and analysis. A recently completed study, NTS Research Corporation's evaluation of the State Capacity Building Program, illustrates the benefits obtained. After reviewing the historical debate between advocates of the two methods, the program and its evaluation are described briefly. The article deals first with the contributions of