SAGE Publications Inc Mixed Methods for Policy Research and Program Evaluation

There are a limited number of resources available for programs, therefore making decisions about which programs and policies should be funded requires careful consideration that can not be accomplished without reliable information about the efficacy of different approaches. The authors of this book provide tips and guidance on conducting mixed-method research that combines qualitative and quantitative approaches for program evaluation. Although the methods introduced are clear and concise the authors both understand the nuances and complexities inherent to policy and research. Specific topics covered include mixed methods coding and analysis memoing, mixed methods research in an international context and broader lessons from the field. Also included are case study examples including an evaluation of higher education in the United States. Annotation ©2015 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com) Mixed Methods for Policy Research and Program Evaluation by Patricia Burch and Carolyn J. Heinrich equips students, researchers, and policymakers in the social sciences with the tools they need for applying mixed methods in policy research and program evaluation, from design, through data collection, and dissemination. Emphasizing the “how-to”—the set of conceptual and active tasks carried out by mixed methods researchers—the book is illustrated with rich case studies from the authors’ own research projects in education and public policy. These examples help readers identify and explain policy and program impacts and better understand the “why” and “how” of observed effects. Throughout the book, the authors describe challenges that both beginners and advanced scholars are likely to encounter when doing mixed methods research and recommend practical tools available to address them. This text presents students, researchers and policy makers in the social sciences with the tools for undertaking mixed-methods research for policy research and programme evaluation, from design, through data collection and dissemination. Autorid: Patricia E. Burch, Carolyn J. Heinrich