Hands-on case studies and exercises using AI tools for MEL:
E-LEARNING COURSE
Harnessing AI
& Emerging Technology
For MEL and International Development
6-WEEK COURSE
The Development CAFÉ in partnership offers an e-learning course for development professionals looking to deepen their understanding of AI applications in MEL.
Format
Online, self-paced with live expert-led sessions and live case studies.
Target Audience
International development professionals, Research and MEL, Specialists, Data scientists, NGOs, policy makers and Tech Geeks.
Certificate of Completion
Receive an official certificate upon completing the program.
Course Overview
This course is designed to equip MEL professionals, researchers, and development practitioners with the skills, insights, and tools needed to responsibly integrate Artificial Intelligence into their monitoring, evaluation, and learning frameworks. The course emphasizes practical applications, real-world case studies, ethical considerations, and strategic implementation tailored for the development sector.
Course Details
Practical Training
- Introduction to AI tools commonly used in MEL (e.g., natural language processing for qualitative analysis, predictive analytics for outcome forecasting).
- Text analysis and sentiment mining on survey and focus group data using AI platforms.
- Automating data collection and cleaning using AI-assisted tools (e.g., chatbots, form automation, machine learning classifiers).
- Building basic predictive models to anticipate program outcomes or risks.
- Visualization exercises: using AI-based platforms to create dynamic dashboards.
- Data storytelling: Leveraging AI to synthesize insights and generate reports automatically.
- Using AI in Evaluation across all stages from Design to Utilization.
Expert Insights
Lessons from global practitioners using AI in development contexts:
- Case study 1: How an international NGO used machine learning to predict food security risks in East Africa.
- Case study 2: Applying AI-driven remote sensing for rapid environmental impact assessments.
- Guest lectures/interviews with MEL specialists who successfully incorporated AI into evaluations for USAID, UN agencies, and large nonprofits.
- Common pitfalls and lessons learned: what worked, what didn’t, and why.
- Real-world tips for introducing AI into conservative or low-tech organizational environments.
Ethical AI Guidelines
Best practices for responsible AI adoption:
- Understanding bias in AI models and its implications for MEL outcomes.
- Data privacy and protection in AI-enabled MEL (GDPR, local laws, informed consent).
- Principles of ethical AI: fairness, accountability, transparency, and explainability (FATE).
- Addressing “data colonialism”: ensuring that AI applications in the Global South are participatory and equitable.
- Tools and frameworks for conducting Ethical Impact Assessments before adopting AI.
- Building inclusive AI systems: considering gender, diversity, and marginalized groups in AI models.
Implementation Strategies
Roadmaps for integrating AI into MEL frameworks:
- Step-by-step guide to conducting an organizational AI-readiness assessment.
- Designing a phased AI adoption plan: pilot projects, scaling, and full integration.
- Resource planning: budgeting for AI tools, training, and data management.
- Change management: preparing teams for cultural shifts around AI adoption.
- Monitoring AI performance over time: setting benchmarks, KPIs, and feedback loops.
- Building partnerships with tech providers, data scientists, and research firms.
Bonus: Course Extras
- Downloadable templates: AI-readiness checklist, ethical AI review forms, data strategy blueprints.
- Access to a curated library of AI tools and platforms relevant for MEL.
- Discussion forums and peer exchange groups for sharing experiences and troubleshooting.
Mentors
Dr. Kerry Bruce has over 30 years of experience in directing and researching development projects worldwide. She has designed and carried out large and complex analyses, project-level studies and brings proven quantitative and qualitative skills from her academic and applied background in public health. She founded and currently manages her own successful woman-owned small business and has led international monitoring, evaluation and learning programs for two large management consulting firms. She is a published author and known for her innovative work with digital technology and AI globally.
Silva Ferretti is an independent consultant with extensive experience across humanitarian, development, and peacekeeping sectors. She has worked with a diverse range of organizations, from the United Nations to local NGOs, and in dozens of countries, leveraging innovative and creative techniques that address complexity and foster participation. Silva's approach emphasizes inclusion, accountability, and the importance of understanding change beyond mere outputs.
Her work incorporates cutting-edge tools like data visualization, multimedia, participatory methodologies, and AI, linking technological innovation with hands-on techniques. This combination makes complexity accessible and engaging, using frameworks and tools that encourage thinking beyond project boundaries and learning. Silva is committed to using her expertise to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable and marginalized communities.
Beyond her professional achievements, Silva is passionate about fostering a culture of curiosity and fresh thinking. She encourages others to embrace the complexity of the world with enthusiasm and a willingness to explore new possibilities.
Valentine J Gandhi, is a senior Evaluation, Innovation and Tech4Good specialist, with over 20 years of interdisciplinary experience at both field and policy level. He is the founder of the think tank The Development CAFÉ , and a Senior Advisor to the World Bank’s Global Evaluation Initiative Launchpad . He regularly speaks on the topic of innovations in evaluation including a TEDx talk on creating Sustainable Impact. He is currently the Chief of Party for USAID Philippines,Pacific Islands, Mongolia Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Activity (PIMMELA), a regional MEL platform covering 14 countries, it is implemented by MSI Inc, a TetraTech Company. Connect with him on LinkedIn.
Registration
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Manual Payment
PRICING
Student - Global South Country
USD 75
Student - Global North Country
USD 100
Professional - Global South Country
USD 200
Professional - Global North Country
USD 250
The Course is managed by The Development CAFE’s Indonesia Country Program.
PAYMENT DETAILS
Account name: Yayasan The Development CAFE
A./c Number: 0573626252
A/c currency: IDR
Bank Name: Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI)
Branch: Renon, Denpasar Bali
Please mention in the reference note
“Harnessing AI & Emerging Technology”
PAYMENT DETAILS
Account name: Yayasan The Development CAFE
A./c Number: 0573627267
A/c currency: USD
Bank Name: Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI)
Branch: Renon, Denpasar Bali
SWIFT Code: BNINIDJARNN
Please mention in the reference note
“Harnessing AI & Emerging Technology”
