Professional Development & Training

The focus is on tooling and retooling African early and mid-career researchers and policy actors to strengthen their research capacities. Over 3000 researchers and policy actors from universities, research institutions, governments, the civil society in 26 African countries have been trained.  The training programme includes an integrated Advanced Research Design (ARD) course comprising core design modules (i.e. Designing Social Inquiry; Multi-Method Strategies for Research; Critical Policy Engaged Research; Research Ethics). This is considered a foundational course that provides theoretical and practical design skills. The rest of the modules focus on the theoretical and practical elements of research methods and are offered as standalone elective modules. These include:  Engendering Social Science Research Methods; Ethnographic and Interpretive Methods; Impact Evaluation; Survey Design; Action Research; Applied Quantitative methods; Comparative Case Analysis; and Social Network Analysis. Additionally, the programme has policy focused modules that include Contemporary Political Economy Analysis; Research Communication & Engagement; and Informed Research Consumers.  

The delivery of the training utilises a pedagogy anchored on interactive learner-centred techniques such as group projects, role plays, fieldwork and guided discussions coupled with peer learning. Technology enhanced learning in form of multi-media materials i.e. electronic case studies, documentaries and animations has been deployed to support teaching and learning. The delivery is also problem-based; where participants identify a research problem which they sharpen by applying the new knowledge and skills they acquire during the training. This adds a practical dimension to the training. Peer learning reinforces interactivity. The modules are in blended formats meaning that they can be offered as face-to-face or online.