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Research projects

Research based projects can take various different forms. They can be large-scale multi-country or multi-site projects, they can be multiple topic projects using a range of quantitative and qualitative methodologies or they can be relatively small single-topic, focused activities using mainly qualitative methodologies. It is important to note that both of these extremes, as well as any types of project along the continuum can be termed research as long as a set of criteria, as outlined in this section, are developed.

In the broadest sense, research can include studies, operations research, action research, evaluations and assessments. The following are some short explanations of some key terminology:

Operations Research

Operations research (OR) is an important way to support and inform planning, co-ordinating, training and evaluation functions that are key components to programming. OR looks at problems affecting service delivery operations, focusing on the search for solutions. Often OR projects consist of an intervention which is closely tied and developed alongside a piece of research. In this case, the research is trying to answer questions related to the intervention, e.g. how affective it is in attaining its desired outcomes. Often the intervention may be an innovative approach and the research will be asking how effective is this intervention.

Evaluative studies

An evaluation is a kind of research as it is measuring change (impact) as a result of a programme. Often programmatic activities are implemented for many years without being assessed. In such cases, evaluative studies can be a valuable research approach for examining retrospectively or cross-sectionally the effect of programme activities. When designing evaluations the same kinds of issues need to be taken into consideration as when developing a piece of operations research. The key difference is, however, that the programme has happened and that an evaluation will summarise what worked and what did not work in a programme and make recommendations for follow-up

Exploratory/diagnostic studies, assessments and situation analysis

These activities can also be classified in a broad sense as being research based in nature. Such studies seek to determine the parameters of a problem situation before programming begins. As in evaluations, the same kinds of issues will be considered in developing assessment or situation analysis strategies as would be considered when developing operations research approaches. Often the recommendations that may come from assessments (and evaluations) may be the need for more in-depth research.

Action Research

As its name implies, action research is intended to achieve both action and research. It is suited to situations where you wish to bring about action in the form of change, and at the same time develop an understanding which informs the change and is an addition to what is known. It is a process by which, therefore, change and understanding can be pursued at the one time. Action research is typically cyclical with action and critical reflection taking place in turn - the later cycles are used to challenge and refine the results of the earlier cycles. In most of its forms it also tends to be qualitative, and participative. It typically is designed and conducted by practitioners who analyse the data to improve their own practice. Action research is also critically reflective. The researchers (and probably clients acting as co-researchers) regularly and systematically critique what they are doing. They refine the questions they are asking and the methods they are using and the understanding and subsequent action plans they are developing.

Issues to consider

• There needs to be clarity around the kind of research that is intended to be carried out, e.g. whether it is small scale, single theme focused, etc.
• The methodology needs to be reviewed to ensure it is consistent with the resources available

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