Harnessing Frontier Digital Technologies for Evaluation
Harnessing Frontier Digital Technologies for Evaluation Course Description
Around the world, donors and implementers are trying to figure out how best to use emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, big data, and the internet of things (IoT) to support development efforts. While we have a responsibility to ensure these technologies are harnessed to their full potential, we must also be aware of the limitations of their use. For example, blockchain has been proposed as a validity solution for almost anything. However, blockchain is not a failsafe way to create data integrity.
This course is designed for those who are working on digital tools for development, and those who are tasked with implementing projects that include big data, AI, blockchain, machine learning, drones, and other technology solutions for development. The course will focus less on the technologies themselves than on evaluation tools, methods, and frameworks that can help participants design decision support tools for program practice. This course will help evaluators and development practitioners use evaluation methods such as complexity-aware monitoring, sense making, developmental evaluation, data quality frameworks, and ethics beyond bias approaches to implementing frontier technologies in the field.
This course is ideal for evaluators, program managers, and technology experts working in the field of technology for good or those who want to build their capacity and knowledge in this area. Some background in evaluation is useful and desirable.
The course is delivered in three virtual, instructor-led modules. Read about each of the modules below. Classes will take place online via Adobe Connect or Zoom. Certificates of completion will be provided at the end of the course to all participants who have successfully completed the modules.
Please contact us with any questions at learningcenter@encompassworld.com.
Module 1: An overview of frontier technology
The course will begin with an overview of frontier technologies associated with the fourth revolution such as blockchain, AI, drones, big data, and the IoT, among others. Participants will gain insight into these technologies and participate in a short quiz as well as a Q&A session with the course instructor.
Module 2: Choosing the right technology for your evaluation
Module 3: Developing a Frontier Technology Road Map for your project
To learn about upcoming course deliveries,