Transformative Research and Evaluation

From distinguished scholar Donna M. Mertens, this book provides a framework for making methodological decisions and conducting research and evaluations that promote social justice. The transformative paradigm has emerged from—and guides—a broad range of social and behavioral science research projects with communities that have been pushed to the margins, such as ethnic, racial, and sexual minority group members and children and adults with disabilities. Mertens shows how to formulate research questions based on community needs, develop researcher–community partnerships grounded in trust and respect, and skillfully apply quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods data collection strategies. Practical aspects of analyzing and reporting results are addressed, and numerous sample studies are presented.

Student- and Instructors-Friendly Features Include:

*Commentary on the sample studies that explains what makes them transformative.

*Explanations of key concepts related to oppression, social justice, and the role of research and evaluation.

*Questions for Thought to stimulate critical self-reflection and discussion.

*Advance chapter organizers and chapter summaries.

Donna M. Mertens is Professor in the Department of Educational Foundations and Research at Gallaudet University, where she teaches advanced research methods and program evaluation to deaf and hearing students. She received the Distinguished Faculty Award from Gallaudet in 2007. The primary focus of her work is transformative mixed-methods inquiry in diverse communities that prioritizes ethical implications of research in pursuit of social justice. A past president of the American Evaluation Association (AEA), Dr. Mertens provided leadership in the development of the International Organization for Cooperation in Evaluation and the establishment of the AEA Diversity Internship Program with Duquesne University. She received AEA’s highest honor for service to the organization and the field. She has published numerous books and journal articles; conducts and consults on evaluations; and leads professional development activities on research and evaluation in many national and international settings.

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