Analyse and interpret data
Rationale
The data you have collected may be qualitative or quantitative. Quantitative concepts focus on
measuring and counting and lead to a statistical analysis whereas qualitative data help you to
understand the situations in question and have to be categorized and summarized. The basis for
analysis are the indicators you have defined. The results are reported first and then interpreted by
looking for possible explanations, discussing alternatives, reaching conclusions. It is helpful to involve
different stakeholders in the interpretation in order to make it a shared learning experience,
understand the meaning of results better and respect various interest positions. As the focus of
evaluation is on learning, it is absolutely vital to plan further actions on the basis of the evidence you
gathered.
Aims
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To make different perspectives visible.
To make sense of data as a basis for interpretation.
To gain a broad understanding of the results.
To make evidence-based decisions.
Description
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Organise your data (categorising, ranking, etc.)
Create an easily accessible overview
Make the analysis transparent for all parties
Apply the criteria
Report the results
Interpret the results by involving different points of view
Draw conclusions evidence-based
This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This publication [communication] reflects the views only of
the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.
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