Technology for Evaluation in Fragile and Conflict Affected States: An Introduction for the Digital Immigrant Evaluator

This paper aims to help evaluators working in fragile and conflict affected states (FCAS) to determine which technology may be useful in various phases of an evaluation. It provides a 5-step decision filter for evaluators to decide if and when it is appropriate to use technology in FCAS.

The information provided was supplied by Anna Jacobson, The Fletcher School, Tufts University. 

Authors and their affiliation

Professor Cheyanne Scharbatke-Church (The Fletcher School, Tufts University) and Aditi G. Patel (The Fletcher School, Tufts University).

Year of publication 

2016

Type of resource

Guide

Key features

The paper presents four different aspects of evaluation in which technology can be the most useful, followed by a table summarizing the most frequently used technologies for evaluation, which includes explanations of the technologies, examples of use, and recommended resources.

It covers the potential risks and pitfalls of technology in certain contexts, and provides a very easy to use framework to help practitioners decide when technology can enhance evaluation, or when its benefits may not outweigh the potential costs associated with integrating the new technology over more traditional methods.

The paper does not offer advice on selecting specific technology products. Instead, it guides readers towards resources for more information.

Who is this resource useful for?

  • Commissioners/managers of evaluation

  • Evaluators

How have you used or intend on using this resource?

Rather than describe how different types of technology platforms or software can assist with data collection, this guide provides step-by-step guidance on how to integrate these technologies into the entire evaluation process (design, analysis, dissemination and use), not only data collection. 

Why would you recommend it to other people?

I recommend this resource because it fills a gap in the literature around technology and evaluation by providing a very practical framework that practitioners can readily apply to their work when making decisions about whether and what kind of technology will actually enhance the quality of their evaluations.

This resource is useful for those who are experienced in evaluation, especially in conflict-affected parts of the world, but are new to integrating technology into their evaluation practice.

Sources

Scharbatke-Church, C. and Patel, A. G. (2016). Technology for Evaluation in Fragile and Conflict Affected States: An Introduction for the Digital Immigrant Evaluator. Working Paper, Aprul 2016. The Fletcher School, Tufts University and Besa. Retrieved from: http://fletcher.tufts.edu/Institute-for-Human-Security/Policy-Engagement...