Impact Evaluation for Evidence-Based Policy in Development Course

Introduction

The Impact Evaluation for Evidence-Based Policy in Development Course is designed to equip development professionals, policymakers, researchers, and evaluators with the knowledge and tools required to assess the real effects of policies, programs, and interventions. The course introduces participants to core principles, methodologies, and applications of impact evaluation within the context of global development.

This course emphasizes the use of rigorous evaluation designs to determine causality—what works, what doesn’t, and why. Participants will explore both quantitative and qualitative approaches, including experimental and quasi-experimental methods such as randomized controlled trials (RCTs), difference-in-differences (DiD), propensity score matching, and instrumental variables. These methods are examined in light of their relevance, feasibility, and ethical implications in real-world development contexts.

Throughout the course, special attention is given to the policy cycle and how impact evaluations can inform decision-making at different stages—from design and implementation to scale-up or redesign. By connecting evaluation results to policy formulation, participants will learn how to translate empirical findings into actionable recommendations. This process fosters a culture of learning, accountability, and continuous improvement within institutions and development programs.

Practical exercises, case studies from diverse sectors (e.g., education, health, agriculture, social protection), and group discussions help participants apply theoretical concepts to real-world development challenges. The course also explores the role of monitoring systems, stakeholder engagement, and political economy in ensuring evaluations are relevant, credible, and used effectively in policy formulation.

By the end of the training, participants will be better equipped to design, commission, interpret, and utilize impact evaluations to support evidence-based policy and programming. Whether working in government, international development agencies, NGOs, or research institutions, attendees will gain valuable insights and practical competencies that enhance their ability to generate and use evidence for impactful development outcomes.

Who should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

·       Policymakers and Government Officials seeking to strengthen the effectiveness of public policies and programs through data-driven decision-making.

·       Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialists responsible for assessing the outcomes and impacts of development interventions.

·       Development Practitioners and Program Managers working in NGOs, international organizations, and donor agencies who need to demonstrate the effectiveness of their programs.

·       Researchers and Academics interested in applying rigorous impact evaluation methods in applied development contexts.

·       Economists and Policy Analysts who advise on program effectiveness and resource allocation.

·       Consultants and Technical Advisors supporting the design and implementation of evaluation frameworks.

Duration

5 days

Course Objectives

By the end of this course the learners should be able to:

• Understand the principles and importance of impact evaluation in the context of evidence-based policymaking and development programming.
• Differentiate between various evaluation types (impact, process, outcome, formative) and determine when impact evaluation is most appropriate.
• Apply rigorous evaluation methodologies, including experimental and quasi-experimental designs such as RCTs, difference-in-differences, and propensity score matching.
• Formulate clear evaluation questions, hypotheses, and theories of change to guide the evaluation process.
• Design and manage impact evaluations that are methodologically sound, ethically responsible, and relevant to policy needs.
• Collect, manage, and analyze quantitative and qualitative data to generate credible evidence on program effectiveness.
• Interpret and communicate evaluation findings to inform policy and program decisions, using accessible and actionable formats.
• Integrate impact evaluation into the policy and program cycle, from design to scale-up or adjustment.
• Assess the political, institutional, and operational challenges of conducting impact evaluations in development settings.
• Promote the use of evaluation evidence in policymaking processes to foster a culture of learning, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Impact Evaluation and Evidence-Based Policy

• Defining impact evaluation and its role in policy development
• Importance of evidence-based policymaking in development contexts
• Distinguishing between monitoring, evaluation, and impact evaluation
• Understanding causality and attribution
• Key actors and institutions in the impact evaluation ecosystem

Module 2: The Policy and Program Cycle

• Linking impact evaluation to the stages of the policy cycle
• Using Theory of Change (ToC) and logic models to guide evaluation
• Identifying policy-relevant evaluation questions
• Timing and planning for evaluations in program lifecycles

Module 3: Evaluation Designs and Methodologies

• Overview of experimental and quasi-experimental methods
• Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs): principles, advantages, and limitations
• Quasi-experimental approaches:
• Difference-in-Differences (DiD)
• Propensity Score Matching (PSM)
• Regression Discontinuity Design (RDD)
• Instrumental Variables (IV)
• Choosing the right design for the context

Module 4: Data Collection and Measurement

• Quantitative vs. qualitative data in impact evaluation
• Designing surveys and selecting indicators
• Sampling strategies and power calculations
• Ensuring data quality, reliability, and ethical standards
• Mixed-methods approaches

Module 5: Data Analysis and Interpretation

• Introduction to statistical techniques for causal inference
• Analyzing results from impact evaluations
• Dealing with biases, confounders, and missing data
• Sensitivity and robustness checks
• Interpreting results for non-technical audiences

Module 6: Communicating Results for Policy Impact

• Translating evaluation findings into actionable policy recommendations
• Tools for effective communication: briefs, presentations, dashboards
• Engaging policymakers and stakeholders in the evaluation process
• Timing and framing evidence for policy influence

Module 7: Institutionalizing Impact Evaluation

• Building evaluation capacity within institutions
• Integrating evaluation into program design and funding processes
• Promoting a culture of evidence use in public sector and development organizations
• Case studies of successful institutionalization of evaluation practices

Module 8: Real-World Applications and Case Studies

• Sector-specific applications (e.g., health, education, agriculture, social protection)
• Lessons from global impact evaluations and development programs
• Group exercises: designing an impact evaluation plan
• Peer review and discussion of evaluation strategies

Module 9: Ethical and Practical Considerations

• Ethics of randomization and evaluation participation
• Informed consent, confidentiality, and data protection
• Navigating operational and political challenges
• Equity and inclusion in evaluation design and implementation

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com Tel: +254 721 331 808

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Upskill Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Upskill certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com, +254 721 331 808

Terms of Payment

Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties payment of the course fee should be done 3 working days before commencement of the training so as to enable us to prepare better.