A learning agenda is a systematic plan to identify and address critical learning priorities and knowledge gaps through answering priority questions. Generally, learning agendas are developed as part of the AMELP to articulate critical questions, how to address them, and how to use the resulting evidence. While the questions may be derived from the mission CDCS, there is also an opportunity to seek learning specific to the activity’s programming and theory of change. Trade-related learning questions may be addressed in a RDCS as well.
More broadly, a learning agenda is a useful coordination tool for engaging stakeholders in evidence planning and building to fill gaps in knowledge and generate new evidence that we can then use to adapt our work. It can also help guide performance management planning by setting knowledge and information priorities. For example, a learning agenda can assist with prioritizing evaluations and research activities as well as in determining key indicators.
In the links provided below, you can explore examples of learning which are sometimes highlighted in AMELPS specifically. For example, under Burma’s Responsible Investment and Trade Activity, a learning agenda approach is shared with illustrative questions as well as learning tools, or the means in which these questions will be investigated.
- Learning agendas from trade teams
- USAID West Africa and Senegal RDCS
- USAID/ Ethiopia CDCS
- Southern Africa Trade and Investment Hub pg. 18
- USAID Burma Responsible Investment and Trade Activity Activity Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Plan
- Economic Growth Support Activity (EGSA) Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Plan
- UPDATE REPORT An Ongoing Learning Agenda on the Impact of BDS on SMME Performance
- Central America Regional Trade Facilitation and Border Management Project AMELP
- USAID Economic Security Program Monitoring, Evaluation, & Learning Plan
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For more information, please contact Paul Fekete.