Description

Combining quantitative and qualitative research to further our understanding of poverty dynamics: Some methodological considerations

DAVID LAWSON

Institute for Development Policy and Management, Chronic Poverty Research Centre, University of Manchester, UK

DAVID HULME

Institute for Development Policy and Management, Chronic Poverty Research Centre, Brooks World Poverty Institute, University of Manchester, UK

JAMES MUWONGE

Ugandan Bureau of Statistics, Kampala, Uganda

ABSTRACT

The paper combines qualitative and quantitative (‘Q-Squared’) research methods to further our understanding of poverty dynamics. Using existing nationally representative panel data from Uganda we adopt the same sampling frame and collect life history information to consider some of the methodological issues that are of importance when combining such research methods and furthering our knowledge of poverty dynamics. Although using relatively old panel data as a base for ‘Q-Squared’ work may not be ideal for sequencing and triangulation of data, we find that if undertaken correctly this can still provide the basis for unique insights regarding key factors that underpin poverty dynamics.

Keywords: Poverty dynamics, Q2, Q-Squared, Life histories, HIV/AIDS, Uganda, JEL Classification: I32, D10