Research

We are dedicated to making research work for civil society organisations. For us, this also means promoting research, analysis and reflection by practitioners on their own contexts and issues. It means the production of evidence and knowledge that is high-quality yet ‘fit for purpose’. We champion research that can bring about real change for civil society, working with academics, policy- and practice-oriented researchers to ensure that research initiatives are relevant and that findings are accessible and useful.

We focus on:

• Participatory action research and training in research methods.
• Producing high-quality evidence for evaluations and impact assessments based on an appropriate blend of quantitative and qualitative methods.
• Desk reviews and scoping studies.
• Research design for evidence-informed projects and programmes.
• Bridging theory and practice through participating in academic research projects.

We are active in research networks and associations such as: the Development Studies Association, the UK Evaluation Society, Eval MENA, and the International Society for Third Sector Research. Through Development in Practice we are connected to key development thinkers around the world.

In addition to research on our key themes, we have tackled many critical topics over the years. Browse our resources database for materials related to:

• faith and religion
• civil society in fragile contexts
• security and counter-terrorism
• migration and diaspora
• social movements
• development effectiveness
• accountability and transparency
• partnership
• philanthropy and private donors

Related Projects

Practitioner-academic collaboration in research to tackle global development challenges

Study on support to civil society through multi donor funds

Using beneficiary feedback to improve development programmes

The Listening Zones of NGOs: languages and cultural knowledge in development programmes

Analytical Skills Training Programme in Central Asia

Related Resources

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