why & when to use qualitative assessment approaches session 1.2 qualitative approaches for fs...
TRANSCRIPT
Why & When to Use Qualitative Assessment Approaches
Session 1.2
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
Session Objectives
By the end of this session Participants are expected to: • Describe the meaning of key terms used in qualitative
assessments.
• Highlight differences between qualitative and quantitative assessment approaches
• Be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of qualitative assessment approaches
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
Some Key Words
products of process
Approach a general way of conducting an assessment and collecting data.
Methods
Tools
Data
refer to how the data are collected, such as: observations, discussions.
are the instruments of the methods that assist data collection or analysis, such as: questionnaires and recording devices.
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
What is a Qualitative Assessment Approach
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
• A scientific approach to assessing an issue • Seeks answers to questions through a systematic
use of predefined procedures.• Collects evidence.• Rigorous data collection and analysis
• Seeks to understand a given problem from the perspectives of the local population it involves.
What Can We Learn From Qualitative Assessment Approaches?
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
• The “human” side of an issue, that is:• Contradictory behaviors• Beliefs• Opinions• Relationships
• Identifying the “intangible” factors whose role in the assessment issue may not be readily apparent• Social norms• Socio-economic status• Gender roles
Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment Approaches Compared
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
Quantitative and Qualitative approaches differ primarily in their:•analytical objectives•sample size•questions format and questions it answers•data format•flexibility in assessment design•reciprocity in information exchange
Qualitative and Quantitative Assessment Approaches Compared
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
Handout 2: Comparison of quantitative and qualitative Approaches
Exercise 1
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
Group Task• 4 groups, 4-5 members each
• Identify the advantages and disadvantages of qualitative approaches (refer to handout on the comparison between the two approaches).
• Prepare a brief (2 minutes) presentation of your conclusions.
20 min for group work
Advantages of Qualitative Assessment Approaches
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
• Use of open-ended questions:• Provides opportunity to explore and question answers• Increases participants’ ability to respond
• Creates rapport with participants… improves access to information
• Provide meaning to results /stories behind the figures
• Does not require large samples
• Could be undertaken rather fast
Disadvantages of Qualitative Assessment Approaches
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
• Requires skills and experience to undertake
• Generalization of findings to large population groups is not possible without quantitative approaches (should be done with caution)
• Results could be questioned as being subjective (need cross-checking)
Misconceptions About Qualitative Assessment Approaches
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
• Objectivity is the “Gold Standard” in research
• Subjectivity compromises accuracy and trustworthiness
• Only assessment findings that are generalizable can inform policy and practice
• Self-reported data are unreliable
When can we use qualitative approaches in FSNA?
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
When to Use Qualitative Approaches
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
Qualitative food security assessments are particularly useful when: •the causes of food insecurity are unknown
•a broader and deeper understanding of the nature of a particular food security issue is required
•information is needed about attitudes linked to food and livelihood security choices, or priorities, perceptions and intentions regarding food security
•the situation is volatile, such as when there is conflict and continuous displacement
When to Use Qualitative Approaches
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
Thus, food security assessments should combine qualitative and quantitative
approaches as needed.
Not all qualitative studies require quantitative verification, and vice versa.
Exercise 2
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments
Group TaskIn your previous groups, read the hypothetical
country scenario and:
• identify what types of qualitative data can be collected to update knowledge on FNSA?
• determine how can this data be collected (sources, methods, etc.)?
Prepare a five minute presentation on your group’s discussion
30 min for group work
Lunch
Qualitative Approaches for FS Assessments