ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the role of monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) in sport development (SD) and sport for development (SFD) programs. It introduces and contextualises the challenges and opportunities for assessing programs and provides an overview of evaluative tools, approaches, and theory. A focus is placed on the interconnected nature of program design and evaluation. Program theory is introduced as a framework through which to understand the relationship between program design and program outcomes. Nuances between evaluating SD and SFD programs and initiatives are discussed. A range of tools for evaluation, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, are considered. Distinctions are made between MEL and research, and some key challenges in research and evaluation settings are explored.
