Institutional Learning and Change Initiative

The following text is drawn from Taylor-Powell et al (1998).

Content analysis

Content analysis can be very useful for analyzing documentation and other existing information that your collaborative has colelcted. It can either produce wualitative summaries of information or quantify content according to preset rules, word searches, counts etc. Content analysis varies by the type of document analyzed; meeting minutes and summaries, visual materials, and activity/program registration forms. Other documents could also be abalyzed for content such as program reports, proposals and publications it they exist. An approach similar to the one we describe for meeting minutes could be used with these documents as well.

Source: Taylor-Powell, E., B. Rossing, et al. (1998). Evaluating Collaboratives: Reaching the potential. Program Development and Evaluation. Madison, Wisconsin: University of Wisconsin-Extension: 190. http://learningstore.uwex.edu/pdf/G3658-8.PDF

References:

Guijt, I. and J. Woodhill (2002). Managing for Impact in Rural Development : A guide for project M & E. Rome, Italy: International Fund for Agricultural Development http://www.ifad.org/evaluation/guide/index.htm