This course looks at how we assess the results of adaptation and resilience actions. A key theme of the course is how we move beyond the measurement of ‘outputs’ at the implementation level, to assess whether adaptation actions are delivering the longer term changes that are necessary for resilience under rapidly changing climatic conditions.

This course builds on our world leading experience in developing adaptation MEL frameworks, systems and indicators for national adaptation plans, international climate finance, and individual programmes and projects. It draws on examples of adaptation MEL frameworks from a variety of contexts. Sources and links to further information are provided throughout the course.

The course consists of the following two sessions and a detailed exercise in which participants design a MEL framework for specific adaptation actions.

I. MEL fundamentals in adaptation contexts

• Purpose(s) of MEL
• Key MEL challenges for adaptation
• Key terms & definitions
• Outputs, outcomes & impacts
• Indicators & targets
• Theories of change & log-frames
• What does adaptation ‘success’ look like & who decides?
• Evaluation types & criteria
• From monitoring to learning

II. MEL frameworks for adaptation

• Some MEL frameworks for adaptation – examples & critiques
• Key outputs for adaptation actions
• Adaptation outcomes – capacities, resilience & vulnerability
• Measuring resilience & vulnerability – approaches & examples
• Adaptation impacts – losses, damages & wellbeing
• Contextualising impact indicators using climate information
• Inclusion in the MEL process
• Key sources of guidance for adaptation MEL

Exercise

Participants design a MEL framework for one or more adaptation actions, including a theory of change and output, outcome and indicators. Participants are asked to consider what ‘successful’ adaptation would look like and how they would use climate information to assess adaptation performance using impact-level indicators. Would the measurement of resilience or vulnerability be relevant? If so, how would this be pursued? What qualitative information might be gathered and how would stakeholders/beneficiaries be involved?

This short course is also incorporated as Module 5 in our Adapting to Climate Change course, which runs over 5 days as an in-person course or as 16 online sessions, each of 2 hours duration, run on consecutive weeks. See dates & pricing to see when these courses are running next, or contact us for further information. This course is run by Dr. Nick Brooks.

This course is run by Dr. Nick Brooks. Check dates and pricing, or contact us to register or express an interest in attending the course.

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