Combining survey and ethnographic methods to improve evaluation of conditional cash transfer programs

Abstract

Drawing on evaluations of conditional cash transfer programs for the governments of Nicaragua and Turkey, this article explores how survey and ethnographic methods have been combined to improve program evaluation. Quantitative and qualitative research designs for the two countries are described, benefits of each method discussed, and examples provided of how findings of the different approaches complemented, explained, illuminated, or contradicted each other. The surveys provide reliable measures of program impacts on human capital. The qualitative research provides explanations of why we do or do not find these impacts, and explores how social processes and social relations are affected by, and in turn shape responses to, the programs. While many official evaluations now require mixed methods, and these have impacts on policy, there is still a considerable way to go with respect to how methods are integrated and how mixed approaches are appreciated in social program evaluation.