How can you get experience in program evaluation and impact assessment?

Pursue relevant coursework or a degree in fields like evaluation, statistics, public policy, or social sciences. Attend workshops, webinars, or conferences on program evaluation methodologies.

Therefore one of the ways to get experience in program evaluation and impact assessments is to work or volunteer for either a Community-based Based Organization or Non - non-profit organisation.

Initially I would say to work in an organization and get to know how it works and then starting a non profit organization. This would give us an Idea about how to run and manage the organization

It's definitely a bonus skill to volunteer especially learning how services operate,team work and training helps build confidence and communication skills...

In my managerial experience, there's a tendency to restrict volunteering to operational activities, which can be a missed opportunity. Talented individuals from various fields are interested in volunteering, including administrative and strategic areas. Tasks like impact assessment can be handled by anyone willing to perform simple tasks like conducting interviews and consolidating report data. It's about recognizing the diverse skills and interests of potential volunteers and leveraging them effectively within the organization.

Online courses offer the most convenient way to enhance your knowledge and skills through study programs that can be tailored to your own pace. There are many courses available, and some of them are offered free of cost. LinkedIn Learning provides a comprehensive study program that can help you achieve your desired goals.

In this current situation, once after your college it is always difficult to attend the full time class. Online classes are always helpful in learning knowledge when you are free

Always being in a part of community will help in getting more contacts and sharing the knowledge among the community and applying in working area.

Look for opportunities to volunteer or intern with organizations involved in social programs, NGOs, or research institutions. Offer your assistance in evaluating and assessing ongoing projects. Connect with professionals in the field through networking events, social media, and professional organizations. Seek mentorship from experienced evaluators who can provide guidance and insights.

Read literature on program evaluation, impact assessment, and research methodologies. Familiarize yourself with widely-used evaluation frameworks and tools. Initiate your own small-scale evaluation projects or collaborate with others. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and gain practical experience

In my nonprofit management background, I've found that creating a personal social project is a fantastic way to gain valuable experience in NGO leadership, particularly in social impact assessment. Analyzing the impact of a smaller project equips you with the skills to undertake more extensive analyses in the future. This hands-on approach not only contributes to positive change but also serves as a practical learning ground for aspiring NGO leaders.

Gaining experience in program evaluation and impact assessment as a nonprofit leader involves a mix of education, hands-on practice, and networking. Start by taking courses or workshops in evaluation methods to build your theoretical knowledge. Collaboratively work on evaluation projects within your organization, even if it's just assisting or observing initially. Seek mentorship from experienced evaluators in your network. Attend industry conferences and webinars to stay updated on best practices. Finally, volunteer to lead small-scale evaluation projects, gradually taking on more complex assessments. This blend of learning and practical application will enhance your skills effectively.

Identify projects that interest you - compare and contrast their methodologies to gain a broader understanding of what's possible in this space.

In my nonprofit management experience, I've noticed a heightened interest from major international funders in the social impact metrics of projects. Having secured substantial funding from European cooperation agencies, I've directly experienced their strong emphasis on impact measurement and practical result evaluation. If one aims to secure resources from European agencies, prioritizing impact assessments becomes imperative. It's clear that aligning projects with rigorous evaluation standards enhances credibility and significantly influences funding decisions.