Use of mixed methods in evaluating CBPR partnerships: Lessons learned from the Detroit Urban Research Center

Introduction

As community-based participatory research (CBPR) has gained increasing prominence, there is a growing need to better understand the factors that contribute to success in long-standing partnerships. Given the complexity of such partnerships, the use of mixed methods in evaluating their effectiveness is particularly applicable. The purpose of this presentation is to describe and analyze the mixed method evaluation approach used by the Detroit Urban Research Center (Detroit URC), a 20 year CBPR partnership.

Methods

The Detroit URC utilizes a mixed methods, participatory and formative evaluation approach guided by a conceptual framework for assessing multiple dimensions of CBPR partnerships. Beginning in 1996, we developed and conducted quantitative (closed-ended questionnaires) and qualitative (in-depth interviews) data collection methods to evaluate and improve the partnership. Drawing on these mixed methods, in 2015 the Detroit URC conducted a survey questionnaire and in-depth interviews with Board members to assess factors contributing to long-term sustainability and success. We analyze both methods to ensure rigor, examine convergence, and apply findings to document and improve the partnership.

Results

We describe and analyze how the use of mixed methods has produced important findings on factors contributing to the effectiveness of this long-standing partnership. The approach produced insights into dimensions such as benefits/costs of participation, partnership impact, and sustainability.

Conclusion

We discuss and analyze the potential, challenges, and lessons learned in applying mixed methods for CBPR partnership evaluation. The intentional integration of mixed methods is an important approach to evaluate and foster the success and sustainability of CBPR partnerships.