Introduction

Achieving substantive gender equality requires more than good intentions; it demands robust evidence to understand what works, for whom, and why. In the field of gender equality, effectively measuring progress and demonstrating impact is crucial for accountability, learning, and attracting sustained investment. Without clear gender equality metrics and rigorous impact measurement, initiatives risk being ineffective, failing to address root causes of inequality, or even inadvertently exacerbating existing disparities. Moving beyond simple sex-disaggregated data, a sophisticated approach involves tracking changes in power dynamics, social norms, access to resources, and decision-making at individual, household, community, and institutional levels. This essential training course focuses on Gender Equality Metrics and Impact Measurement, equipping participants to design and implement effective monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems.

This intensive training course is meticulously designed to equip monitoring and evaluation (M&E) specialists, program managers, gender focal points, researchers, policymakers, and civil society organizations with the theoretical understanding and practical tools necessary to develop and apply gender-sensitive metrics and measure the impact of gender equality initiatives. Participants will gain a deep understanding of different types of gender indicators, learn how to collect and analyze gender data ethically and inclusively, and explore various methodologies for impact assessment. The course will delve into topics such as theories of change for gender equality, quantitative and qualitative gender data collection, measuring changes in norms and agency, intersectional data analysis, and reporting on gender equality results to diverse stakeholders. By mastering the principles and methodologies of Gender Equality Metrics and Impact Measurement, participants will be empowered to strengthen accountability, improve program effectiveness, and contribute to evidence-based gender transformative change.

Duration: 5 Days

Target Audience

• Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialists
• Program Managers and Coordinators
• Gender Focal Points and Advisors
• Researchers and Academics
• Civil Society Organization Staff
• Government Officials (Planning, M&E, Gender Ministries)
• Donors and Philanthropic Organizations
• Data Analysts
• Consultants in Development and Humanitarian Fields
• Advocacy and Communications Professionals

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts of gender-responsive M&E and its importance for gender equality.
• Analyze different typologies of gender indicators (sex-disaggregated, gender-specific, gender-sensitive, transformative).
• Learn to develop a gender-responsive Theory of Change for programs and projects.
• Acquire skills in designing and implementing gender-sensitive data collection methodologies (quantitative and qualitative).
• Comprehend how to analyze and interpret gender data using an intersectional lens.
• Explore methods for measuring changes in complex gender outcomes like agency, empowerment, and social norms.
• Understand the ethical considerations and safeguarding practices in collecting and using gender data.
• Develop strategies for reporting and communicating gender equality results to various audiences.
• Examine global best practices and existing frameworks for gender equality measurement (e.g., SDGs, WEPs).
• Develop a practical M&E framework with gender equality metrics for their own programming.
• Enhance critical thinking skills for evidence-based decision-making in gender equality work.

Course Content

Module 1: Foundations of Gender-Responsive Monitoring and Evaluation

• Defining M&E, gender-responsive M&E, and their role in achieving gender equality.
• Key concepts: sex-disaggregated data vs. gender statistics, gender-sensitive vs. gender-transformative.
• Why gender-blind M&E can perpetuate inequalities or miss critical insights.
• The link between a robust Theory of Change and effective gender measurement.
• Introduction to the gender equality continuum (gender-blind, gender-sensitive, gender-transformative).

Module 2: Developing a Gender-Responsive Theory of Change

• Understanding Theories of Change (ToC) and their application to gender equality initiatives.
• Identifying gendered assumptions, pathways, and ultimate impacts.
• Engaging diverse stakeholders, particularly women and marginalized groups, in ToC development.
• Articulating clear gender equality outcomes and indicators at different levels (output, outcome, impact).
• Using the ToC to guide indicator selection and data collection.

Module 3: Types of Gender Equality Indicators

• Sex-disaggregated indicators: uses and limitations.
• Gender-specific indicators: focusing on issues relevant to one gender (e.g., maternal mortality).
• Gender-sensitive indicators: capturing differential impacts on women and men.
• Gender-transformative indicators: measuring shifts in power relations and social norms.
• Practical exercises in identifying appropriate indicator types for different program goals.

Module 4: Quantitative Data Collection for Gender Equality

• Designing surveys and questionnaires with a gender lens.
• Ensuring representative sampling for diverse gender groups.
• Using household surveys, administrative data, and national statistics with sex-disaggregation.
• Data quality considerations and potential biases in quantitative gender data.
• Introduction to quantitative data analysis for gender insights (e.g., ratios, percentages by gender).

Module 5: Qualitative Data Collection for Gender Equality

• Methods for gathering rich qualitative data on gender (e.g., focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, most significant change).
• Ensuring safe spaces and ethical considerations when discussing sensitive gender issues.
• Participatory approaches to data collection that empower marginalized voices.
• Capturing perceptions, attitudes, experiences, and social norms related to gender.
• Techniques for analyzing qualitative gender data (e.g., thematic analysis, discourse analysis).

Module 6: Measuring Complex Gender Outcomes: Agency, Empowerment, Norms

• Conceptualizing and defining "empowerment" and "agency" in measurable terms.
• Indicators for women's decision-making power, voice, and control over resources.
• Approaches to measuring changes in gender norms and attitudes.
• Using qualitative methods to complement quantitative measures of empowerment.
• Challenges and innovations in measuring intangible aspects of gender equality.

Module 7: Intersectional Data Analysis for Gender Equality

• Understanding intersectionality and its importance in gender data analysis.
• Analyzing data beyond sex-disaggregation: intersecting identities (e.g., gender, age, disability, ethnicity, rural/urban).
• Identifying how multiple forms of discrimination impact program results.
• Visualizing intersectional data effectively.
• Using intersectional analysis to refine program targeting and strategies.

Module 8: Ethical Considerations and Safeguarding in Gender Data

• Do No Harm principle in data collection and reporting on sensitive gender issues.
• Informed consent processes, confidentiality, and data protection for all participants.
• Protecting the privacy and safety of data collectors and respondents.
• Data ownership and responsible data sharing.
• Addressing potential re-traumatization and ensuring referral pathways.

Module 9: Reporting and Utilizing Gender Equality Data for Impact

• Crafting compelling reports that highlight gender equality results and lessons learned.
• Tailoring communication for diverse audiences (donors, policymakers, communities).
• Using data to advocate for policy change and increased investment in gender equality.
• Establishing systems for continuous learning and adaptation based on gender data.
• Global frameworks for reporting gender equality (e.g., SDG 5 indicators, Women's Empowerment Principles).

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: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute 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 Skills for Africa Training Institute 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: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training