Decision-tree framework for selecting study methods for malaria interventions in mobile and migrant populations

Abstract

The studies encouraged in this tooklit are primarily intended to guide action, either immediately or through information sharing leading to collective regional strategies. Localized study approaches for example, participatory rural appraisal and BCC design activities may be so action-focused that they are not commonly identified as research. Others large population-based surveys, for example require clear presentations to policy makers as well as regional dissemination using common indicators and definitions. Study designers should consider action issues before data collection begins.

This toolkit is targeted more to programme managers rather than to researchers. Its objective is to help managers oversee and manage the surveys component within their programme strategy, decide the kind of study that would be most useful for them, based on grant applications to be made or reported, programmatic decisions to be made or problems to be solved. The toolkit follows a decision-tree format, asking important questions and recommending study approaches based on answeres. It presents methodological choices and present examples from recent reports.