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Observation

Wed, 07/30/2008 - 15:11 — Cristina Sette

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

Observation

Considerable evaluation data can be collected by just observing. Direct observation is an underused and valuable method for collecting evaluation information. "Seeing" and "listening" are key to observation. Observation provides the opportunity to document activities, behavior and physical aspects without having to depend upon peoples' willingness and ability to respond to questions.

Observation is useful for many aspects of evaluating collaboratives including all types of evaluation questions to document program activities, collaborative processes, outcomes, individual intersts and feasibility. It is appropriate in the following situations:

  • When you want direct information
  • When you are trying to understand an ongoing behavior, process, unfolding situation or event
  • When there is physical evidence, products or outcomes that can be readily seen
  • When written or other data collection procedures seem inappropriate

What to observe

  • Characteristics of members or participants
  • Group Interactions
  • Nonverbal Behavior
  • Leaders, Facilitators
  • Physical Surroundings; Environment of the Collaborative
  • Products/Activities of Programs

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

 

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Thu, 07/31/2008 - 15:51 — Cristina Sette

Direct Observation Method

The following text is drawn from Guijt and Woodhill (2002).

The purpose of direct observation is to obtain useful and timely information by observing what people do, to help make decisions on improving a project's performance or for generating insights and findings that can serve as hypotheses for more focused studies. From an M&E perspective, this method is critical to complement collected data, can be used to understand the context in which information is collected and can help explain results.

Citation: 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