Philanthropies are beginning to apply a learning approach for their evaluation processes. Yet, what is the value of a learning-oriented approach and can it uncover new insights that otherwise wouldn’t be possible through traditional results-oriented processes?
Natasha Joshi’s article Curiosity over certainty: a learning approach to grantmaking published in Alliance Magazine aims to answer these questions. Joshi discusses Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies’ funding strategy for gender-equity and how a learning-oriented approach can enable curiosity and experimentation across a foundation.
Engaging men in improving gender-equity is critical, yet the majority of gender-equity related programs rely solely on women. In response to this need, Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies established a program focused solely on how young men can help build a gender-equitable society. The team delivered small “learning grants” to new grantees and worked with a researcher who could follow individual grantees’ processes and conduct periodic learning assessments. Their intention was to transform the evaluation process to be focused on learning as opposed to accountability.
A key aspect of the research process was the ability to formulate learning-oriented questions. Instead of asking about outcomes and metrics, they asked about what they learned from the experience and how they could improve during the next grant period. Using this approach, the team uncovered several insights about grantees’ theory of change and assumptions that they otherwise would not have known.
The foundation is now applying this evaluation approach to other lines of work. It was particularly valuable at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic—helping to understand grantee experiences and build trust.
A few key takeaways relevant for the DATA4Philanthropy Network:
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The value of a learning-oriented approach: Applying a learning-oriented approach to philanthropy can not only improve experimentation and agility, but also help build empathy and trust with grantees.
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The importance of responsible research practices: Conducting research directly with grantees throughout the grant period can improve learning, but must be administered responsibly. For instance, the Rohini Nilekani Philanthropies team gave grantees the opportunity to opt out of the research with no implications on future funding.
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Challenging assumptions in evaluation processes: Taking the time to assess the assumptions within evaluation questions and reformulate them can help uncover new insights that otherwise would not have been identified.
Read the full article here.
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