Challenges in measuring social and psychosocial impact
Outcomes and impact in the social and psychosocial field are notoriously hard to measure and assess. The so-called “soft outcomes” such as changes in attitudes, self-perception or certain skills areas are typically defined as crucial, but are often intangible to measure.

It is becoming increasingly acknowledged that a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches to M&E has the potential to capture a wider set of outcomes (especially unexpected outcomes) and is more likely to provide a more complete picture of the effects of the intervention.
Combining approaches
Accordingly, the range of “commonly acceptable” M&E tools needs to be broadened and adapted to innovative methods. Therefore, besides traditional, commonly standardised M&E tools (such as questionnaires, focus group discussions, interviews, etc.), alternative M&E tools (e.g. story telling, performing arts, fine arts, photo monitoring, video documenting, etc.) should be considered.

Traditional approaches to M&E, involving often highly technical and specialised methods, may:

• not be fully conducive to being implemented on the ground, due to lack of knowledge or understanding of M&E among non-specialist implementers;
• not be seen as integral to the intervention;
• not be entirely capable of reflecting both intended and unintended outcomes of the intervention;
• not participatory or inclusive enough.

Having fun with M&E
In light of the peculiarities of sport and play focusing on the recreational approaches towards learning, building relationships, developing understanding and generating greater autonomy, creative techniques to M&E can offer a useful additional means of engaging with quality control and programme improvement that is especially in line with the playful nature of sport and play activities. Furthermore, innovative M&E tools could be motivating for the staff as well as cost-effective.

Examples of a creative M&E approach currently being used in Sport & Development programmes or projects include:

• photo monitoring;
• storytelling;
• participatory video
• problem tree
• poetry club

 Credit: sportanddev.org