Methodologies for Research and Evaluation of Policy and Programmes
For more than fifteen years, GRADE has spearheaded evaluations of public policies and programs in Peru through our numerous impact evaluations. GRADE researchers have produced impact evaluations in various sectors including health, nutrition, education, social inclusion, agriculture, and economic development, as well as in each of GRADE’s research areas. The experience and knowledge that we have acquired through these numerous evaluations have endowed GRADE with standing and authority in the field that few institutions in the region possess.
The work of our researchers contributes to the corpus of the evidence-informed studies of academics and the public policy-makers by promoting and conducting impact evaluations using the most rigorous and most current methodologies. In this vein, we encourage the use of experimental research designs and the use of econometric techniques that minimize biases and ensure a thorough evaluation of the impact of public policies. We have likewise conducted qualitative evaluations of the design and processes employed in the formation of public policies and programs. We use mixed research methods and a variety of research designs in our impact evaluations to more profoundly analyze the ways different policies affect society and to shed light on the achievements and complications in implementing various public policy programs. The findings of these evaluations not only demonstrate the value of cost-efficient programs but also offer recommendations for ineffective programs, which subsequently leads to the more efficient use of public resources. GRADE researchers also contribute to the establishment of a civic and academic culture that values the independent evaluation of public policies and programs, a critical component in the establishment of clear processes of accountability and in the transparent and efficient use of public resources.
GRADE, moreover, shares the wealth of knowledge we have gained by providing opportunities for high-quality training. We offer courses on conducting effective impact evaluations of development programs for public officials, officials of multilateral agencies, representatives of NGOs, students, and professionals in economics and the social sciences.
