Course Details

Developing a Learning Agenda in M&E Training Course

INTRODUCTION

This essential training course provides comprehensive knowledge and practical skills for designing and implementing a Learning Agenda within Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) systems. Recognizing that M&E's ultimate purpose extends beyond accountability to fostering continuous learning and adaptation, this program equips participants with a systematic approach to identifying critical knowledge gaps, prioritizing learning questions, and embedding learning processes into program cycles. Participants will gain deep insights into participatory question development, evidence synthesis, and knowledge utilization strategies, all crucial for transforming M&E from a mere reporting function into a powerful engine for organizational improvement and greater impact. This course is ideal for M&E specialists, program managers, strategic planners, and leaders committed to evidence-informed decision-making.

DURATION

10 days

TARGET AUDIENCE

This course is specifically designed for professionals seeking to enhance their organization's capacity for strategic learning and adaptation, including:

• Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialists and Coordinators.
• Program Managers and Directors.
• Strategic Planners and Organizational Development staff.
• Knowledge Management Professionals.
• Funders and Grant Managers interested in learning-oriented approaches.

OBJECTIVES

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the concept and strategic importance of a Learning Agenda in M&E.
• Facilitate a participatory process to identify and prioritize key learning questions.
• Map appropriate M&E and research methods to answer learning questions.
• Develop a clear Learning Agenda plan that integrates with program cycles.
• Foster a culture of learning and adaptive management within their organizations.

MODULES

Module 1: Introduction to Learning Agendas in M&E

• Define a Learning Agenda and differentiate it from traditional M&E plans.
• Explore the shift from M&E as solely accountability to M&E for learning and adaptation.
• Understand the benefits of a robust Learning Agenda (e.g., improved decision-making, increased impact, resource optimization).
• Discuss the preconditions for a successful Learning Agenda (e.g., leadership buy-in, learning culture).
• Examine case studies of organizations successfully using Learning Agendas.

Module 2: Identifying Critical Learning Questions

• Understand the process of identifying strategic knowledge gaps within a program or organization.
• Discuss techniques for facilitating participatory workshops to surface learning questions from diverse stakeholders.
• Explore how to link learning questions to program theory of change, strategic objectives, and key assumptions.
• Examine methods for prioritizing learning questions based on urgency, feasibility, and potential impact.
• Learn about framing learning questions to be actionable and answerable.

Module 3: Mapping Learning Questions to M&E and Research Methods

• Understand how to select appropriate M&E methods (e.g., surveys, evaluations, routine monitoring) to answer specific learning questions.
• Discuss the role of research methodologies (e.g., qualitative studies, experimental designs) in a Learning Agenda.
• Explore mixed-methods approaches for comprehensive answers to complex learning questions.
• Examine innovative data collection tools and techniques relevant to Learning Agendas.
• Learn about developing a learning matrix that links questions to methods, roles, and timelines.

Module 4: Developing a Learning Agenda Plan

• Understand the key components of a comprehensive Learning Agenda document.
• Discuss how to structure the Learning Agenda to be clear, concise, and actionable.
• Explore strategies for integrating the Learning Agenda with existing M&E plans and program work plans.
• Examine budgeting and resource allocation for learning activities.
• Learn about assigning roles and responsibilities for Learning Agenda implementation.

Module 5: Evidence Generation and Synthesis

• Understand how to systematically generate evidence to answer learning questions.
• Discuss techniques for collecting and compiling relevant data from various sources.
• Explore methods for synthesizing evidence from multiple studies and data streams.
• Examine quality assurance processes for learning products (e.g., evidence briefs, case studies).
• Learn about critically assessing the robustness and generalizability of evidence.

Module 6: Knowledge Sharing and Communication Strategies

• Understand the importance of effective knowledge sharing for a thriving Learning Agenda.
• Discuss various formats for communicating learning insights (e.g., workshops, webinars, policy briefs, interactive dashboards).
• Explore strategies for tailoring communication to different audiences and their learning needs.
• Examine the role of internal and external communication channels in disseminating learning.
• Learn about creating a culture where sharing insights is valued and rewarded.

Module 7: Facilitating Learning and Adaptive Management

• Understand the process of translating learning insights into actionable recommendations.
• Discuss techniques for facilitating reflection sessions and sense-making workshops with teams.
• Explore how Learning Agenda findings inform adaptive management decisions and program adjustments.
• Examine the role of feedback loops and continuous improvement cycles.
• Learn about fostering a responsive organizational culture that embraces change based on evidence.

Module 8: Sustaining a Learning Agenda and Institutionalization

• Discuss strategies for embedding Learning Agendas into organizational policies and practices.
• Explore how to secure ongoing leadership commitment and resources for learning.
• Understand challenges in institutionalizing Learning Agendas and how to overcome them.
• Examine the importance of measuring the impact of the Learning Agenda itself.
• Learn about building internal capacity for continuous learning and knowledge management.

CERTIFICATION

• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

• Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

• Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com