Evaluation –Optimising Evidence for Accountability andLearning in NRM Programmes
Prof Eureta Rosenberg (Rhodes
University), Nosiseko Mtati (NLEIP
and Rhodes) and Vhutshilo Mudau
(AWARD and Rhodes)
Biodiversity Research and Evidence Indaba 17 August 2017
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Resilience in the Olifants(RESILIM-O) – Limpopo Province, AWARD & USAID
Ntabalanga-Laleni Ecological Infrastructure program (NLEIP) -Eastern Cape, DEA & Rhodes
Two NRM Programmes with Innovative MEAR:
Photo Credits: NLEIP and AWARD
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If we want Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting to optimise accountability and learning, we need:
1. Complementarity of multi-methods
2. Reporting with built-in reflection
3. Social & educational protocols forcitizen monitoring
1. Complementarity of Multi-Methods
• On its own an indicator is just suggestive.
• On its own, a story is just anecdotal.
• Indicators plus narratives can add up to
robust evidence.
Complementarity of Multi-Methods
Indicator based monitoring (e.g. # of wetlands restored, # of training days) +
Open-ended narrative
monitoring +
Focussed evaluation
case studies +
Meta-evaluation = generalizable
insights
2. Reporting with Built In Reflection:
• Action-reflection cycles
• In complex,
stochastic systems =
• Strategic adaptive
management
Plan
Take action
Get feedback
Reflect
2. Reporting with Built In Reflection:
• B2O Back to Office reports
• Teams compile monthly reports
• Evaluation Champs & Coordination
• Reflection may require training
• Need not be more onerous!Research: Mudau, Thulare, Kotschy, Burt, Rosenberg
3. Citizen Monitoring can be valuable
• For NRMPs• For citizens
Research: Bannatyne, Nyamela, Rowntree, Van der Waal, Mtati, Rosenberg
3. Citizen Monitoring protocols:
• Scientific• Social• Educational
Research: Bannatyne, Nyamela, Rowntree, Van der Waal, Mtati, Rosenberg
Conclusion: Some NRM programmes are collecting evidence through new MEAR
frameworks which have potential to increase learning and accountability.
Research investigating such claims is underway. How do we make this work into the national system?
Plan
Act
Evaluate
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