Methods of measuring community engagement
Evaluation needs to be relatively simple and efficient and incorporate existing data wherever possible. You can use many methods to gather information about variables: it is important that an appropriate method is selected that is the right tool for the job. Some useful methods for evaluation include:
Force field analysis, appreciative enquiry, survey research and a variety of other methods are also appropriate for evaluation of community engagement.
Informed person survey
Interviewers discuss issues with a relatively small number of stakeholders or community people who are well informed about community issues and attitudes. They provide feedback on the indicators in the evaluation matrix, with regard to the extent and quality of community engagement. This technique is efficient, doesn’t burden the community with surveying and allows considerable qualitative information and detail.
Community conversations
Community conversations are informal discussions with relatively small groups of people. There is a clear understanding that the discussions are deliberately targeted and views are not representative of all stakeholders. It suits situations of previous over-consultation and helps to avoid creating unrealistic community expectations. Conversations can be conducted with various sub-communities or groups of stakeholders where community members convene the discussion.
Key people are identified and invited personally to a discussion. However, an open invitation is also made to the community at large through media, school newsletters, etc. Conversations happen at times, dates and venues, which are suitable to the stakeholders.
Focus group
A facilitator conducts a group interview, a focused conversation that enables you to gain a comprehensive range of views about indicators from a small group of people. Focus groups can be standing with the same people involved each year, or they could be convened as a one-off.
Focus groups are quick and flexible, and issues can be explored through personal interaction and discussion. However, participants may not represent community feeling, and personal power and group dynamics may influence the opinions expressed.
Rapid community appraisal
Rapid community appraisal involves a team of two to 20 people conducting an intensive series of personal discussions and meetings with a range of community members. It could be adapted to collate information on indicators, using prompt questions in discussions. An appraisal involves prearranged discussions with businesses, community organisations, local government, etc. It can also include impromptu discussions with community members. An appraisal can take from a few hours to several days.
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