SERVICES
Research and Evaluation

"DIR provides high quality . . . market research at an exceptional value."
   
 

Research and Evaluation

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DIR understands the ethical and feasibility challenges related to research. DIR offers research and development services such as the most appropriate study designs and methods, quantitative and qualitative data collection, and appropriately tailored analyses. We specialize in evaluations and assessments in the areas of children and youth; communities and organizations; consumers, markets, and demographics; education; health and human services; and labor and economics. Contact DIR for examples of our presentations and published reports of findings.

Designs & Methods
DIR conducts comprehensive research and evaluation studies. We work with our clients to identify the most appropriate design, data-collection methods, and analyses for their research and evaluation needs. DIR designs and implements rigorous studies, employing random assignment, regression discontinuity, matched comparisons, and other quasi-experimental designs.

  • National Evaluation of Early Reading First
  • Evaluation of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers
  • Evaluation of the eXcelerate Program for NOJC

    • DIR performs multiphase organizational assessments and diversity studies to assess needs and assets and evaluate the effectiveness of organizational
    programs and initiatives.

  • Organizational Climate Study for the National Education Association (NEA)
  • Diversity Survey for Duke Energy Gas Transmission
  • Needs Assessment of Multi-Service Centers for the City of Houston

    • DIR develops evaluations for pilot programs and demonstration projects. We
    illustrate the planned program's theory of change through logic models;
    document the actual implementation through formative evaluations; and assess implementation outcomes through summative evaluations.

  • Evaluation of the Mathematics Leadership Institute-Rice University School     Mathematics Project
  • Evaluation of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Capacity-Building Blanket
    • Analysis
    DIR analyzes qualitative data from in-depth interviews, focus groups, and case
    studies; we use software specifically designed for this purpose.

  • Evaluation of the Youth Opportunity Grant Initiative
  • Evaluation of the 21st Century Community Learning Centers
  • Interim Evaluation of the Regional Educational Laboratories

    • DIR conducts a range of quantitative data analyses---from descriptive statistics to more sophisticated analyses---to meet the needs of our clients. We also perform ongoing review, validation, and calibration of outcome measurements and assess program results.

  • Job Corps Policy Development and Evaluation Support
  • Study of the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program     Participants
  • Assessment Reliability and Validity of Data Collected for the Integrated     Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)

    • DIR prepares and submits high-quality and on-time reports that provide clear summaries of the evaluation's planning and development, implementation, and results. Our reports highlight key findings and recommendations that address
    the needs of our clients.