Quasi-Experimental Design: Understanding the Impact of Paraprofessionals on the Lives of Vulnerable Children in Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Research indicates the growing needs of orphaned and vulnerable children in Sub-Saharan Africa. This case study describes a quasi-experimental study including design, data collection, and indicators related to types of support received by orphans and vulnerable children from paraprofessional community health and social workers in Côte d’Ivoire. Our study was an independent review of the paraprofessional support model for an intervention program for orphans and vulnerable children used by the nongovernmental organization Save the Children in Côte d’Ivoire. This model highlighted the needs of orphans and vulnerable children, particularly those living with HIV, in accessing and utilizing the critical role played by paraprofessionals in their lives. Students and new researchers are provided with an opportunity to gain insight into the steps and considerations involved in determining and carrying out this type of research in a resource-poor setting. The importance of paraprofessionals' contribution to enhancing the well-being of orphans and vulnerable children in Côte d’Ivoire and quasi-experimental design as a good fit for field research are discussed.

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