TIG Webinars

The TIG hosts webinars throughout the year to share current work with members.

2024 TIG Webinar Schedule

If you are interested in presenting, please contact Jessica Davison at JDavison@unitedwayhouston.org

Presenter: Rebecca Mqamelo
Date & Time: October 20, 2023 at 2pm ET
Title: Using Blockchain for Impact Evaluation
Abstract: This presentation will be from Rebecca Mqamelo on her study of the first randomized control trial on community currencies, focusing on Grassroots Economics Community Inclusion Currency (CIC) model run on the xDAI blockchain. Beneficiaries in Nairobi, Kenya were sent the equivalent of $30 in cryptocurrency tokens, enabling a level of impact evaluation usually unfeasible for most cash and mobile-money based transfer programs. Results show that CIC transfers of $30 are associated with $93.51 increase in beneficiaries wallet balance, a $23.17 increase in monthly CIC income, a $16.30 increase in monthly CIC spending, a $6.31 increase in average trade size and a $28.43 increase in expenditure on food and water. However, the difference in treatment effects for males versus females suggests gender imbalances persist. This study serves as an important prototype for novel cash transfer models and presents some of the first quantitative evidence in the area of "crypto for good."

Presenter: Silva Ferrretti
Date & Time: February 21, 2023 at 12pm ET
Title: ChatGPT and Evaluation
Abstract: Have you heard the buzz around ChatGPT? Silva Ferretti has been playing with these kinds of artificial intelligence tools for some time. She sees ChatGPT as a game changer for evaluators. We seriously should look into this NOW.

Presenters: Jessica Davison
Date & Time: February 24, 2024 at 12pm ET
Title: AEA’s Integrating Technology in Evaluation TIG
Abstract: Please join us for an upcoming TIG webinar on emerging technologies in use. We hope that you'll join this webinar to share what and how you are using digital technologies intentionally, effectively and responsibly. If you have any topic suggestions for upcoming webinars and/or you'd like to present at an upcoming webinar, please reach out!

Presenters: Emily Gates, Nishat Tasnim Akhi, Sergio Barragán, Akash Chopra, Ella Claire Walsh, Shadman Islem, Erin Kim, Daniel Raphael
Date & Time: December 13, 2023 at 9am ET
Title: Generative AI in Evaluation Planning
Abstract: An evaluation course at Boston College is hosting a discussion on generative AI in evaluation planning. Graduate students will share examples, tips, and insights from their applications within a course evaluation project followed by open discussion among attendees. Examples will include uses of ChatGPT, Dall-E, and BARD. Evaluation tasks range from developing or visualizing logic models to identifying stakeholders and brainstorming evaluation criteria and indicators. Students will share short demos with prompts used and outputs generated. The session is meant as a collaborative learning space to exchange ideas.

Presenters: Michael Cooper, Carolyn Fonseca, Amanda Janczak, Jack Payne
Date & Time: September 22, 2023 at 12pm ET
Title: Applying ChatGPT on Qualitative Analysis
Abstract: AI in the field of international development work, specifically monitoring and evaluation, has not been widely used or tested. The team will present findings on why they decided to use the tool, lessons learned from applying ChatGPT on qualitative analysis, and thoughts on future uses. The presenters will share their perspectives on challenges working with AI in development, and opportunities for advancing the evaluation field with new technology – including AI-based tools.