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Research Methodologies

 

Figures Don't Lie But Liars Figure

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by
The interpretation of statistics may be misleading if not analyzed using comprehensive and standardized data. This article from the Coalition to Abolish Sport Hunting examines a handful of specific claims made in the fishing, hunting, and wildlife arenas.

Evaluation for Normal People (audio/podcast)

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by Stanford Social Innovation Review
Alana Conner, senior editor of the Stanford Social Innovation Review, describes the trials and tribulations of evaluating program effectiveness. An experimental social psychologist by training, she illustrates how many evaluation practices in the nonprofit sector may actually mislead funders and organizations. Although most programs would love to implement "Cadillac" evaluations, they can only afford "second-hand Yugos." Following Dr. Conner's talk, Rick Aubry, executive director of Rubicon Programs Inc., describes how his organization secured funding for a state-of-the-art evaluation system. [Abstract excerpted from website]

Information Management and the State of the Animals

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HRC's executive director, Che Green, weighs in on animal advocacy in the information age and "The State of the Animals"

Understanding Survey Bias

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Informed researchers and survey readers should have at least a general understanding of the various forms of survey bias and error.

Understanding Survey Results

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The results produced by opinion surveys are easily misunderstood and sometimes intentionally misleading. Learn to identify the good, bad, and just plain ugly surveys.

Case Study: The Handsel Foundation

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The Handsel Foundation is a small private foundation working to end the ill treatment and overpopulation of companion animals. Beginning in May 2006, HRC conducted three phases of research for the Handsel Foundation ("Handsel") related to grant-making effectiveness.

Survey Design 101

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Whether you're designing a modest member survey or a large multi-year donor tracking study, applying a few basic principles will help you get valid, actionable results.

7 Studies Every Animal Advocate Should Know About

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Take a break from your daily work for animals and check out the interesting insights provided by these seven recent research studies.

4 Ways Research Can Help Animal Advocates

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How even do-it-yourself research offers important insights and much-needed measurement to animal advocacy programs and campaigns.

Overcoming the Illusion of Public Opinion

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How "deliberative" polls and the "Mushiness Index" can help us understand public opinion