Monitoring, Evaluation, Research & Learning (MERL)
Global Edu Canada supports governments, development partners, and implementing agencies to design and implement robust Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) systems that strengthen accountability, improve decision-making, and enhance program impact. Our MERL work ensures that education policies and programs are evidence-based, adaptive, and results-oriented, while also contributing to institutional learning and system improvement.
We provide end-to-end MERL support—from framework design and data collection to evaluation, learning, and knowledge dissemination—with a strong emphasis on ethical research practices, data quality, and utilization of findings for continuous improvement.
What We Support
- Design of MERL frameworks and systems
- Baseline, midline, and endline evaluations
- Education program and policy evaluations
- Applied research and learning studies
- Data systems strengthening and utilization
- Learning, knowledge management, and adaptive programming
Typical Outputs
Our MERL engagements typically result in:
- MERL frameworks and performance measurement plans
- Baseline, midline, and endline evaluation reports
- Education program and policy evaluation studies
- Learning agendas and research plans
- Data collection tools and protocols
- Dashboards and performance monitoring tools
- Evidence briefs and learning products
- Knowledge dissemination and learning reports
Our Methodology
We apply a rigorous, ethical, and utilization-focused approach to MERL that prioritizes learning and decision-making.
1. MERL Design & Planning
- Development of MERL frameworks aligned with program objectives
- Definition of indicators, targets, and data sources
- Integration of learning questions and use-focused evaluation design
2. Data Collection & Quality Assurance
- Quantitative and qualitative data collection methods
- Development and testing of data collection tools
- Data quality assurance and validation processes
3. Evaluation & Research
- Formative, summative, and developmental evaluations
- Mixed-methods research and analysis
- Policy and program impact assessments
4. Learning & Adaptive Management
- Facilitation of learning reviews and reflection sessions
- Translation of evidence into actionable recommendations
- Support for adaptive program management and course correction
5. Knowledge Sharing & Capacity Development
- Preparation of evidence briefs and learning products
- Capacity development for national and institutional MERL teams
- Strengthening data use culture within organizations
Sample Deliverables
Examples of deliverables provided under this service include:
- Monitoring, Evaluation, Research & Learning Framework
- Performance Measurement Plan (PMP)
- Baseline, Midline, and Endline Evaluation Reports
- Education Program or Policy Evaluation Study
- Learning Agenda and Research Plan
- Data Collection Tools and Enumerator Manuals
- MERL Dashboards and Indicator Tracking Tools
- Evidence Briefs, Learning Notes, and Knowledge Products
Ideal Clients
This service is designed for:
- Ministries of Education and government agencies
- International development agencies and donors
- UN agencies and international NGOs
- Education reform and sector-wide programs
- Research institutions and education initiatives
Tools & Frameworks We Use
Our MERL work draws on internationally recognized tools and best practices, adapted to context:
- Results-Based Management (RBM) frameworks
- OECD-DAC evaluation criteria
- Mixed-methods research and evaluation designs
- Theory of Change and contribution analysis
- Learning agenda and adaptive management frameworks
- Ethical research and data protection standards
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you conduct both monitoring and evaluation?
Yes. We design comprehensive MERL systems that integrate monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning.
Can you evaluate donor-funded education programs?
Yes. We conduct independent and internal evaluations for donor-funded education initiatives.
Do you support data use and learning, not just reporting?
Absolutely. Our approach emphasizes evidence use for learning, decision-making, and program improvement.
Do you work in fragile or low-capacity contexts?
Yes. We adapt MERL systems to fragile, crisis-affected, and low-capacity environments.
Can you build national MERL capacity?
Yes. Capacity development and institutional strengthening are integral to our MERL services.
Seeking evidence to strengthen education programs and policies?
Global Edu Canada supports partners with rigorous, ethical, and learning-focused MERL systems that drive better results. Contact Us to:
👉 Request a MERL Consultation
👉 Submit a Terms of Reference (ToR)
👉 Download Our Capability Statement
