Evaluating an e-learning program to strengthen the capacity of humanitarian workers in the MENA region: the Humanitarian Leadership Diploma

Background The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is consistently plagued with humanitarian crises while having little response capacity. Despite their obvious growing need, there exist limited educational opportunities for humanitarian workers to develop their capacity in humanitarian topics. The present study evaluates an online training program, the Humanitarian Leadership Diploma (HLD), which targeted humanitarian workers across the MENA region. Methods A mixed-methods design was used, comprising short and long-term quantitative and qualitative data, targeting individual and organizational-level outcomes. A total of 28 humanitarian workers across the MENA region enrolled in the program starting September 2019 until October 2020, 18 of which completed the full diploma. Short-term quantitative data such as knowledge assessments, course evaluations, and reflective commentaries were collected from all learners, whereas long-term qualitative data was collected only from those who completed the full diploma and from peers at their organizations, 6 months after completion. Data was triangulated, analyzed using qualitative content analysis, and reported as themes. Results The program was overall successful given multiple factors reported by participants such as enhanced knowledge, high satisfaction, and improved practice, with some important challenges being identified. Themes under the strengths category related to (1) online learning, (2) significance of diploma, (3) course content, (4) instructors, (5) transfer of learning into practice, and (6) personal development. Themes under the challenges category related to (1) barriers to applying changes in behavior and performance, (2) engagement and interaction, and (3) pedagogical approach. Conclusion This is one of very few evaluations of locally developed and delivered online learning programs for humanitarian actors in the MENA region. The findings are especially important as they may inform researchers and humanitarian actors looking to design and deliver similar programs in the MENA region or other fragile settings. Key recommendations are discussed in the manuscript, and include to combine synchronous and asynchronous approaches, design concise course materials, limit theoretical pedagogical approaches, ensure topics are contextualized to the region, and consider continuous engagement strategies for learners.