Course Outline 

Module 1: Introduction to Impact Evaluation Concepts and Frameworks

• Overview of monitoring, evaluation, and impact evaluation
• Purpose and importance of impact evaluation in development and policy
• Distinguishing outputs, outcomes, and impacts
• Theory of Change and Results Frameworks
• Attribution vs contribution in impact assessment
• Stakeholder roles in impact evaluation
• Case Study: When and why impact evaluation is required

Module 2: Impact Evaluation Design and Methodologies

• Experimental and quasi-experimental designs
• Randomized Control Trials (RCTs): principles and applications
• Quasi-experimental approaches (matching, difference-in-differences, regression discontinuity)
• Before-and-after and comparison group designs
• Strengths and limitations of different evaluation designs
• Selecting appropriate methods based on context and resources
• Practical Exercise: Designing an impact evaluation framework

Module 3: Data Collection and Measurement for Impact Evaluation

• Identifying indicators for impact measurement
• Quantitative and qualitative data collection tools
• Baseline, midline, and endline surveys
• Sampling techniques and sample size considerations
• Data quality assurance and validation
• Ethical considerations and informed consent
• Workshop: Developing impact evaluation data collection instruments

​​​​​​​Module 4: Data Analysis and Interpretation of Impact Results

• Preparing data for impact analysis
• Basic impact estimation techniques
• Interpreting causal relationships and effect sizes
• Combining qualitative and quantitative findings (mixed methods)
• Addressing bias, confounding factors, and limitations
• Using evaluation findings for learning and improvement
• Practical Exercise: Interpreting impact evaluation results

Module 5: Reporting, Utilization, and Learning from Impact Evaluations

• Structuring impact evaluation reports
• Communicating findings to technical and non-technical audiences
• Visualization and presentation of impact data
• Using impact evidence for policy influence and programme redesign
• Managing evaluation recommendations and action plans
• Sustainability and institutionalization of evaluation practices
• Capstone Exercise: Presenting an impact evaluation summary and lessons learned