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Table 1 Comparison of strengths and weaknesses of action research compared to randomized controlled trials and improvement campaigns
| Randomized controlled trial | Action research | Improvement campaign | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strengths | • Demonstrates efficacy of an intervention | • Facilitates tailored approach based on context | • Motivates widespread participation |
| • Promotes careful attention to intervention protocol | • Allows adjustment | ||
| • Provides feedback regarding how and why interventions succeed or fail | |||
| • Engages frontline expertise and increases likelihood of sustaining the intervention | |||
| Weaknesses | • Does not address contextual factors, except through exclusion criteria | • Difficult to assess systematically and to conduct at scale | • Does not address contextual factors |
