Journal Entry: Tracing Impact Through Evidence
a) How was success measured?
At first, we measured success by daily use. We thought if teachers used the new tablets every day, the program was working.
b) What data was collected, and how was it used to improve outcomes?
We collected simple numbers, like login records and teacher checklists. We used this data to see which departments used the tablets the least. Those departments got more technical training. This helped teachers use the hardware more often.
c) What would you do differently today using the M&E principles in this unit?
Today, I would focus on better goals. I would measure student engagement and critical thinking, not just logins. I would gather stories and opinions from student focus groups. I would also collect test scores from before and after the program started to see real impact.
d) Journal Entry Reflection
Looking back, our plan had one big strength: it was simple. Busy teachers could follow it easily. But the major gap was that we only tracked the activity, not the result. We saw if tablets were in hands, but not if students learned more. We focused on outputs, not outcomes. Now, I know I would balance the data. I would mix the simple numbers with stories and real learning evidence. This way, we could be sure the program truly improved student lives and wasn't just a new tool being used.