The monitoring and evaluation (M&E) component of the research fellowship program is designed to ensure that the fellows’ work aligns with PAL Network’s goals and to assess the impact of their research. This process will help in maintaining the quality and relevance of the projects, providing support where needed, and fostering continuous improvement. The M&E framework includes the following elements:
Progress Monitoring
- Regular Check-ins: Fellows will participate in regular check-in meetings with their mentors and the fellowship coordinator. These meetings will provide opportunities to discuss progress, address challenges, and adjust project plans as necessary.
- Mid-Term Reports: Fellows will be required to submit a mid-term report summarizing their progress, key findings to date, and any adjustments made to their research plans. This report will be reviewed by the fellowship committee to ensure the project is on track.
Evaluation Metrics
- Quality of Research: The evaluation will assess the rigor and quality of the research employed by the fellows, including design, data collection, analysis, interpretation, and reporting.
- Relevance and Alignment: The projects will be evaluated for their alignment with PAL Network’s priorities and the extent to which they address the identified research needs.
- Innovation and Impact: The evaluation will consider the innovative aspects of the research and its potential impact on educational policies, practices, and outcomes, particularly in the global south.
Feedback and Support
- Constructive Feedback: Fellows will receive detailed feedback on their mid-term reports and overall progress. This feedback will highlight strengths, identify areas for improvement, and provide suggestions for enhancing the research.
- Additional Resources: Based on the evaluations, additional resources or support may be provided to fellows, such as access to further data, technical tools, or additional mentorship.
Final Evaluation
- Final Report: At the end of the fellowship, fellows will submit a comprehensive final report detailing their research findings, conclusions, and recommendations. This report will be a key document for assessing the success and impact of the fellowship.
- Presentation of Findings: Fellows will present their research findings in a seminar or workshop organized by PAL Network. This presentation will provide an opportunity for feedback from peers, mentors, and other stakeholders.
- Publication and Dissemination: Successful research projects may be considered for publication in academic journals, reports, or as part of PAL Network’s knowledge dissemination efforts. The dissemination strategy will ensure that the findings reach relevant audiences, including policymakers, practitioners, and the academic community.
Impact Assessment
- Long-term Impact: The M&E process will also consider the long-term impact of the fellows' research, including how the findings are used by PAL Network and its partners to inform policy and practice.
- Learning and Improvement: The insights gained from the M&E process will be used to refine and improve the fellowship program, ensuring that it continues to meet the evolving needs of the organization and the broader educational research community.