Download the full Evaluation Guide as a pdf documentAnnex 1
GlossaryQualitative research
Qualitative data is gathered from what people say and feel, and what is observed and deduced, and provides for description and interpretation.
Quantitative research
Quantitative data involves collecting numbers and statistical analysis and is about measurement and judgement.
Social capital
The UK Government has formally adopted the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s definition of social capital: “networks together with shared norms, values and understandings that facilitate co-operation within or among groups”. In particular, social capital involves building ‘bonds’ and ‘bridges’ between people as a foundation for social support and relationships.
Social exclusion
This is what can happen when a combination of linked problems such as unemployment, poor skills, low incomes, unfair discrimination, poor housing, high crime environments, bad health and family breakdown lead to people or places being excluded from the outcomes and opportunities enjoyed by mainstream society.
Stakeholders
Those that feel they have a stake in the issue - either because they may be affected by any decision or be able to affect that decision. Stakeholders may be individuals or organisational representatives (Involve 2005).
Summative evaluation
Evaluation undertaken at the end of the project under review, providing an overview of the entire process (see also Formative).
Sustainable development
Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Volunteers
May be formal or informal:
- informal volunteering: giving unpaid help to those who are not family members; and
- formal volunteering: giving unpaid help through groups etc. to benefit other people or the environment. (Munton T. and Zurawan A. 2004, Active Communities: Headline Findings from the 2003 Home Office Citizenship Survey, London: Home Office)
Voluntary sector
Groups whose activities are carried out other than for profit but which are not public or local authorities. These organisations would normally be formally constituted and employ paid professional and administrative staff. They may or may not use volunteer help.