How do you think community development programs should be evaluated and why? What do you think of the evidence based movement in relation to CD? Please also let me know if you're a CD worker or an evaluator (or both). Thank you. I'm interested in your perspectives.
We too willingly rely on an evidence based approach. The challenges of this are the fragmented nature of what we know works, the poor availability of new knowledge and a lack of competence to interpret and transfer what is available into practice. CD can fail when it relies too much on the science, which is often weak or non-existent, and does not appreciate the value of professional judgement. This is a situation that can be improved by presenting evidence-based findings as recommendations for delivering CD programs. However, to achieve this, researchers must first have an understanding of the practical context so that they can identify what works or does not work in a range of settings. Something that is often missing in the literature
This is my feeling too Glenn. I can't see how we can acknowledge the need for context-sensitivity and participation, ownership, empowerment etc and then enforce 'evidence based' programs. Aren't these two perspectives polar opposites? It seems no one is noticing the disconnect...
You are right Leanne, it is not an easy marriage but the power lies with the biomedical / research environment and so we continue you on a road that is destined to fail by insisting on an evidence-based approach-very short sighted.
Dear Leanne Kelly,
I'm an evaluator, but not a CD worker.
Evaluation of community development programs can be done by applying a mixed-method approach. Evaluation is needed, because it is very important to know the level of implementation and success of the program.
I strongly agree with the evidence-based movement in relation to the CD worker.
Interesting. Thank you for your response Wiwi. Could you explain why evidence-based programs are important and applicable to community development? Also what type of mixed-method approach do you think would be good and why? Do you think it's important to have a counterfactual? Thank you!
Evidence-based programs are important in community development, as evidence (such as work / products) is a tangible form of increased competence and or community skills. It can be applied because during the community development process, community development program participants are usually trained to perform an activity. From the activities done, they will produce something that can be a tangible proof of their performance.
You can use explanatory or exploratory mix-methode design, depending on your needs.
Counterfactual thinking is important, because in a study there are possibilities.
Hopefully my answer is useful.
Thanks Wiwi. What do you think counts as evidence? E.g. how do we know if a program is successful or not? What counts as 'success'?
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