Decolonising Monitoring and Evaluation Practices:
Hatched by Anemarie Gasser
Dec 16, 2023
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Decolonising Monitoring and Evaluation Practices:
A Common Approach to Impact Measurement
In recent years, there has been an increasing call to decolonise various aspects of our society, including the field of monitoring and evaluation (M&E). The webinar titled "Decolonising Monitoring and Evaluation Practices" sheds light on the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives and challenging traditional approaches to impact measurement. This article aims to explore the key takeaways from the webinar and provide actionable advice for practitioners in the field.
One of the central themes discussed during the webinar was the need to decolonise the very foundations of M&E practices. Traditional approaches to impact measurement often rely on Western frameworks and methodologies, which may not be suitable or culturally sensitive in all contexts. By decolonising M&E, we can ensure that the voices and experiences of marginalized communities are heard and valued.
A common point highlighted by the speakers was the power dynamics inherent in traditional M&E practices. Often, the evaluation process is designed and controlled by external actors, leading to a lack of ownership and agency for local communities. By shifting the power dynamics and involving local stakeholders in the design and implementation of M&E processes, we can create a more inclusive and participatory approach to impact measurement.
Furthermore, the webinar emphasized the importance of recognizing and valuing different forms of knowledge. Traditional M&E practices tend to prioritize quantitative data and overlook the rich insights that can be gained from qualitative methods. By embracing a more holistic approach that combines both quantitative and qualitative data, we can gain a deeper understanding of the impact of interventions and capture the nuances of diverse contexts.
Incorporating unique ideas and insights, the webinar explored the concept of "decolonial evaluation." This approach challenges the notion of a single universal truth and recognizes that evaluation is shaped by historical, cultural, and political factors. By acknowledging these influences, decolonial evaluation seeks to disrupt and dismantle dominant power structures, ultimately leading to more equitable and just outcomes.
Drawing from the webinar, here are three actionable pieces of advice for practitioners seeking to decolonise their M&E practices:
- 1. Engage in meaningful partnerships: Foster genuine partnerships with local communities and stakeholders, ensuring their active involvement and decision-making power throughout the M&E process. This will help to shift power dynamics and promote more inclusive practices.
- 2. Embrace diverse methodologies: Move beyond traditional quantitative approaches and embrace a range of qualitative methodologies that allow for the exploration of different forms of knowledge and experiences. Incorporate storytelling, participatory techniques, and other culturally sensitive methods to capture a more comprehensive understanding of impact.
- 3. Challenge dominant narratives: Question the assumptions and biases that underpin traditional M&E practices. Be open to alternative perspectives and actively seek out voices that have historically been marginalized or silenced. By challenging dominant narratives, we can create space for more inclusive and nuanced evaluations.
In conclusion, decolonising monitoring and evaluation practices is a crucial step towards creating more equitable and impactful interventions. By shifting power dynamics, embracing diverse methodologies, and challenging dominant narratives, we can foster a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to impact measurement. It is imperative for practitioners in the field to reflect on their own practices and actively engage in the decolonisation process. Only by doing so can we truly ensure that our evaluations are fair, just, and representative of the diverse communities we seek to serve.
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