Getting Practical With Causal Mechanisms: The application of Process-Tracing Under Real-World Evaluation Constraints

Resource type
Author/contributor
Title
Getting Practical With Causal Mechanisms: The application of Process-Tracing Under Real-World Evaluation Constraints
Abstract
Over the past decade, the field of development evaluation has seen a renewed interest in methodological approaches that can answer compelling causal questions about what works, for whom, and why. Development evaluators have notably started to experiment with Bayesian Process Tracing to unpack, test, and enhance their comprehension of causal mechanisms triggered by development interventions. This chapter conveys one such experience of applying Bayesian Process Tracing to the study of citizen engagement interventions within a conditional cash transfer program under real-world evaluation conditions. The chapter builds on this experience to discuss the benefits, challenges, and potential for the applicability of this approach under real-world evaluation conditions of time, money, and political constraints.
Publication
New Directions for Evaluation
Volume
2020
Issue
167
Pages
45-58
Date
2020
Language
en
ISSN
1534-875X
Short Title
Getting Practical With Causal Mechanisms
Accessed
18/02/2021, 14:26
Library Catalogue
Wiley Online Library
Citation
Raimondo, E. (2020). Getting Practical With Causal Mechanisms: The application of Process-Tracing Under Real-World Evaluation Constraints. New Directions for Evaluation, 2020(167), 45–58. https://doi.org/10.1002/ev.20430