Realistic Evaluation and the Process Tracing Method: A Combined Approach to Scrutinize Causal Mechanisms

Abstract

This article proposes a methodological contribution through the combination of realistic evaluation (RE) and the process tracing method (PTM). In order to overcome some limits of RE’s operationalization, the combination RE-PTM reinforces RE by breaking down the causal mechanisms and testing them with the PTM. This combination was being tested on a project for the professional integration of young people in difficulty. Two business representatives, six supervisors, ten trainers, and fifteen beneficiaries participated in interviews and three focus groups. The research results support that the combination of RE-PTM can address some RE operationalizing challenges. The RE-PTM procedure shows that the PTM can provide RE with guidance on how to collect and assess data that support the contribution made by an intervention in achieving outcomes.