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Introduction to Qualitative Program and Policy Evaluation
EDU S513

Course Information

Description

Why is an intervention that was successful in a pilot program faltering in the broader rollout? What are the enablers of and barriers to implementing a new statewide policy? What are the strengths and limitations of a mentoring program? How can we ensure the voices and lived experiences of those whom a program serves are reflected in evaluation? Qualitative research, either as a sole methodology or in tandem with quantitative research, often plays a central role in education program evaluation and policy development. While quantitative research can show whether there is a relationship between programs and outcomes, it cannot answer why or how, or offer insight into the process of implementation. This course will provide students with a comprehensive introduction to qualitative program and policy evaluation and is appropriate both for consumers and producers of research. Class time will include a mix of discussion, group activities and short lectures. A key element of the course will be a group research project conducted in partnership with an organization or government agency.
No prerequisites. No prior experience with qualitative research required. Both master’s and doctoral students are welcome to take this course as well as students at other Harvard graduate schools.

School Graduate School of Education
Credits 4
Cross Reg

Available for Harvard Cross Registration

Department Education
Course Component Regular Course
Instruction Mode In Person
Subject Education
Grading Basis HGSE Letter Graded
Learning Goals By the end of the course, students will be familiar with all aspects of designing and carrying out qualitative evaluation. The course will provide students opportunities to practice the steps involved in conducting qualitative research, including defining research objectives and questions; selecting the site and participants; selection of research techniques; developing protocols; conducting focus groups and interviews; analyzing data; addressing ethics and validity considerations; and writing up findings. Students will also learn appropriate writing styles for different purposes.
Career Focus This course is appropriate for students in all programs at both the master’s and doctoral levels, including those at HKS, the Graduate School of Design, and the Chan School of Public Health.  Qualitative research impacts many fields, and students of all career interests will find this class useful.  This course will provide valuable practice with consuming and creating research in education.
Content evaluation