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A Learning Review for the Global Development Institute

A learning review for the Global Development Institute on outcomes of the FutureDAMS programme.

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IMA conducted a learning review for the Global Development Institute at the University of Manchester, UK, to draw out feedback and outcomes from FutureDAMS programme stakeholders. Drawing on experience from conducting similar learning reviews and following a document review, and discussion with the FutureDAMS Senior Management Team (SMT), IMA International used a mix of strong qualitative methodologies to draw out lessons learned and unexpected outcomes from FutureDAMS stakeholders, including institutional partners and network of researchers, to find out if research has ultimately made a difference, or is likely to be used in future decision making.

Investigation of the outcome levels was via two different methodologies; ‘Cognitive Mapping’, carried out with key secondary and primary stakeholders to reveal and identify key issues and a ‘retrospective Theory of Change’.  The outcomes of these techniques were assimilated to extract key learning from the FutureDAMS programme to feed into the wider report to be submitted to UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).

The selected methodologies investigate the underlying requirement to take research, understand it, set policy, and engage with other related agencies.  The quality of outputs (primarily research publications) is not for reviewers to second-guess, and due to the rigorous academic publishing systems, can be assumed to be sound. How they might be used (short-term outcomes) are another matter outside project control.  Achievement of outcomes are the chief focus of this review including any issues regarding weak hypotheses and actions of (largely external) stakeholders.

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For more information about UKRI, the GDI or FutureDAMS, visit their websites.

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