Evaluation generally relates to practice and the specific project being examined. Rarely its purpose is generalization but rather an understanding of the particular circumstances which affect the outcomes being examined. Thus, evaluation is not analogous with academic research, but it does incorporate many of the techniques of research, though for a much more limited purpose.

Qualitative and quantitative researchers alike define problems, select research designs, develop methodologies, collect, analyze and interpret data, and report findings. There is, however, one significant difference between the two. In quantitative research, the researcher is the principal data collection instrument; whereas in qualitative research, scientifically designed data collection tools are developed.

An evaluation report does not differ from most research as it is an action-oriented document and the users do not differ considerably from academic researchers.

Ethnography is an investigation defined by an interest in a specific phenomenon within its real-life context. It is a qualitative form of inquiry that relies on multiple sources of information. Its distinctive feature is the case that may be an event or process considered worthy of study.

In evaluation, two types of comparison are typically employed. Baseline data describes the condition prior to an intervention, and periodic measurement enables comparisons to the baseline state, thus determining progress. Benchmarking compares to a standard.

Qualitative research is a form of inquiry that explores phenomena in their natural settings and uses multi-methods to interpret, understand, explain and bring meaning to them. Qualitative research has many sources that contribute to its shape and substance.

Case study is action-oriented and aims to assess, describe, document or inform people concerned about the phenomena under investigation. Findings are intended to have an immediate and practical value, as contrasted with basic research aimed at adding to existing knowledge bases.

One framework that has proven to be of great utility over the past two decades is the logical approach and it is the basis for most mandatory evaluations of federal programs in Canada, and increasingly in many international agencies in other parts of the world.

A fundamental assumption of the qualitative research paradigm is that a profound understanding of the world can be gained through conversation and observation in natural settings rather than through experimental manipulation under artificial conditions.

The “looking approach” is more aligned with theoretical application as it involves making a prediction of significant correlations based on theory or prior research. The data are then examined to test the theory or principle in a new or applied situation.