Impact evaluation of policies, programmes and projects (Blended)

This certification programme delivered through a blended modality, mixing distance-learning modules, a one-week workshop and a practicum, provides a practical approach to design, conduct and interpret impact evaluations. It brings together researchers, evaluation experts, policy makers and development practitioners in a collaborative and instructive learning space. OBJECTIVES After attending this certification programme, it is expected that participants are able to: • Describe and explain concepts and methods to design an impact evaluation based on a counterfactual or based on qualitative data; • Assess the cost-effectiveness of development interventions; • Identify impact evaluation options that recognize budget, time and data constraints, and that best suit the needs of specific programmes, countries and institutional context; • Strengthen the technical capability to understand, interpret and identify the pros and cons of quantitative impact evaluations (experimental and quasi-experimental design) and qualitative impact evaluations; • Design, prepare and plan an impact evaluation; • Analyse data to perform impact evaluations and cost-benefits analysis. CONTENT I. Learning modules: the certification programme was delivered through the ITCILO online platform, the eCampus, and a one-week workshop on its campus in Turin. Participants completed the following eight learning modules introducing, in detail, the knowledge and skills required to assess the relevance and effectiveness of an impact evaluation: 1. Introduction to impact evaluation; 2. Theory of change, results model, impact evaluation questions and indicators; 3. Generating a counterfactual and introduction to experimental methods; 4. Experimental and quasi-experimental methods; 5. Evaluation methods based on qualitative approaches; 6. Choosing the appropriate evaluation methods, data sources and data collection methods; 7. Sampling, survey and impact evaluation implementation; 8. Data analysis, reporting and dissemination. II. Knowledge tests and practical assignments: for each module, participants were required to assimilate the content, to respond to a knowledge test and to practice by applying the knowledge, tools and techniques on their own policy, programme or project. III. Practicum Throughout the eight modules, participants completed a practicum, with the support and guidance of an expert. By means of this carry-through assignment, participants completed and documented a plan to conduct a real impact evaluation. RESULTS This certificate of achievement has been delivered to the participants who have completed all the assignments and produced the required deliverables during each phase of the programme: I. Learning modules · Completion of the eight learning modules. II. Knowledge tests and case studies · Acquisition of practical knowledge and skills. III. Practicum · Research, development and finalization of a plan to conduct an impact evaluation; · Submission of an impact evaluation design to the ITCILO experts for review, assessment and certification. NUMBER OF HOURS: 60