why would you recommend the use of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies in monitoring and evaluation?

The use of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies in monitoring and evaluation is highly recommended for several reasons:

1. Comprehensive Understanding: Quantitative data provides numerical data that can be statistically analyzed for trends, patterns, and correlations. On the other hand, qualitative data provides in-depth insights into the reasons, opinions, and motivations behind the numbers. Using both methodologies allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the situation or phenomenon being studied.

2. Validation and Triangulation: The use of both methodologies allows for the validation of findings. If both qualitative and quantitative data point to the same conclusion, it increases the reliability and validity of the results. This process is known as triangulation.

3. Flexibility: Sometimes, during the course of evaluation, new questions or issues may arise that were not initially considered. Qualitative methods are flexible and can be adapted to explore these new areas in depth.

4. Context: Qualitative methods help to provide context to the numbers obtained from quantitative methods. They help to understand the 'why' and 'how' behind the 'what', 'where' and 'when' of quantitative data.

5. Stakeholder Perspectives: Qualitative methods are particularly useful in capturing stakeholder perspectives, experiences, and voices, which can be crucial in monitoring and evaluation.

In conclusion, using both quantitative and qualitative methodologies in monitoring and evaluation provides a more robust, comprehensive, and nuanced understanding of the situation or phenomenon being studied.