In what circumstances should qualitative methods be used in evaluation research? In what circumstances should quantitative methods be used? Use social work examples in your answer.
What will be an ideal response?
Qualitative methods can add much to quantitative evaluation research studies, including more depth, detail, nuance, and exemplary case studies (Patton, 2002). Perhaps the greatest contribution that the qualitative method can make in many evaluation studies is investigating program process. Another good reason for using qualitative methods in evaluation research is the importance of learning how different individuals react to the treatment. Qualitative methods can also help in understanding how social programs actually operate. Complex social programs have many different features, and it is not always clear whether some particular feature or a combination of features is responsible for the program’s effect—or for the absence of an effect. The more complex the social program, the more value that qualitative methods can add to the evaluation process
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Goal attainment scales (GAS) can be very useful in social work practice. Whereas, GAS can help
consumers and practitioners collaboratively monitor treatment progress. The GAS consists of three columns, with the first column being used for five points of measure ranging from most unfavorable to most favorable. What information is contained in columns two and three? a) Baseline and outcome measures b) Descriptors for levels of anticipated success c) Likert scaling d) Responses to an outcome measure
The absence of normal behavior such as the lack of emotion, a complete lack of speech, and extreme apathy are commonly referred to as
a. positive symptoms. b. negative symptoms. c. an empty mood. d. distorted thinking.
The “targets” of social control activities have not yet decided to accept a nondeviant,
socially acceptable role.
Indicate whether the statement is true or false.All of the following statements about housing in the U.S. are true except
(a) most Americans rent rather than own their own homes; (b) nearly half of the nation’s lowest income households live in substandard housing; (c) housing accounts for about 1/5 of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP); (d) affordable housing is defined as housing that costs under 30% of household income