6.2: Understanding Program Data
Powerhouse® uses different types of information to understand who participated, what they experienced, and what they gained from the program. Two types of information are commonly used:
|
Quantitative |
Qualitative |
|---|---|
|
Information that can be counted or measured. |
Information that helps us understand participants’ experiences. |
|
Examples: number of participants, attendance, and evaluation responses. |
Examples: comments, reflections, feedback, and responses to open-ended questions. |
Putting It Into Practice
For example, one Powerhouse® curriculum outcome is improved ability to cope. The curriculum evaluation looks at young caregivers’ ability to cope with the stress and emotions connected to helping their family.
Quantitative: A young caregiver rates how able they feel to cope with stress and emotions related to helping their family.
Qualitative: A young caregiver shares what they learned, what they found helpful, or a strategy they can use when experiencing stress.
Why Use Both?
Quantitative information can help show what changed or what patterns are emerging, while qualitative information helps us understand the experience behind those numbers. Together, both types of information provide a fuller picture of the Powerhouse® experience.