Commentary - A Synthesis of Qualitative Research in Program Evaluation: Considerations for a Community-Engaged Approach.

Abstract

Qualitative research methodologies offer critical contextual insights into community-engaged program evaluations, addressing limitations in solely quantitative approaches. While randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are inherently rigorous, their design does not consider nuanced contextual factors and lived experiences that are valuable to understanding a program's impact on community and health outcomes within diverse populations. In this theoretical discussion, we posit that qualitative methods, particularly when grounded in a Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) framework, foster trust and collaboration, yielding richer, more community-specific data to enhance program evaluation. We also provide evidence-based, practical consideration for conducting qualitative research for community-engaged program evaluations. We explore various qualitative approaches and their application in program evaluations. We highlight the iterative nature of qualitative data analysis and emphasize the importance of qualitative methodological rigor - including coding, triangulation, and member checking - to ensure the program evaluation's community value, credibility, and deeper contextual evaluation. Ultimately, we underscore the value of integrating qualitative methods throughout a program's lifecycle for comprehensive assessments, improved program effectiveness, and enhanced equity.