Session: New developments in qualitative evaluation research

Time: Thursday 5th July, 11:15 - 12:45

Convenor:

Dr Flora Cornish (London School of Economics & Political Science)

Abstract Details

Qualitative methods are recognised in health-related evaluation studies for their supportive role either in providing descriptive evidence about “people’s experiences” or in tailoring trial design to maximise chances of success. However, qualitative research has more fundamental and independent contributions to offer. This session’s speakers will explore ways in which qualitative inquiry expands the terrain of evaluation research, by generating innovative ideas, understanding the agency of subjective experiences, and considering how interventions operate at different ‘scales’. Quantitative evaluations' suggestions of certainty are alluring in a ‘post-truth’ era. This session showcases the necessity of the qualitative.

The level of the session is: Accessible

Presentation details

Presentation 1

Start time: 11:15

Presentation title: Out with the old - in with the...what? Back to basics in qualitative research

Presenter:

Professor Jennie Popay (Lancaster University)

Presentation 2

Start time: 11:45

Presentation title: From the belly of the beast: using qualitative methods alongside RCTs of complex interventions

Presenter:

Dr Jenevieve Mannell (University College London)

Presentation 3

Start time: 12:15

Presentation title: Ethnographic contributions to considering 'scale' in the evaluation of complex interventions - insights from studying a community empowerment initiative

Presenter:

Dr Joanna Reynolds (London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine)