Innovations in the use of mixed methods in real-world evaluation

Abstract

This article illustrates a number of recent developments in mixed methods evaluation. These include how mixed methods can: strengthen the design of quantitative impact evaluations, help identify unintended outcomes of development programmes, contribute to the evaluation of complex development programmes and strengthen the focus of evaluations on equity and gender equality. Reference is made to some of Howard White's important contributions to these different areas of mixed methods. This article concludes with an assessment of the strengths and limitations of mixed methods when conducting evaluations under real-world budget, time, data and political constraints.