Project Summary:
In May 2015, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) awarded a five-year contract to Management Systems International (MSI) to provide performance management support to USAID-sponsored development programs throughout Pakistan. The Performance Management Support Contract (PERFORM) will serve as a centralized management support mechanism supporting USAID/Pakistan’s mission to increase stability, democracy, and prosperity for the men and women of Pakistan through the implementation of the Mission Strategic Framework (MSF). PERFORM will provide data and information to help project managers improve project results through better implementation and design, as well as services that support the Mission’s learning and adaptive process, enabling it to better target its programming and achieve its goals and objectives. The performance components will include: (1) Monitoring Services; (2) Evaluation Services; (3) Assessment Services; and (4) Learning Support Services.
Position Summary:
MSI will conduct an assessment of the Burka Avenger television show. Burka Avenger is designed for children 8-12 years of age and aims to mitigate the influence of violent extremist organizations by providing youth with a counter-narrative to the rhetoric of violent extremist groups. An underlying assumption of the program is that a counter-narrative that promotes positive social values, such as tolerance, openness, and respect, can be effective in reducing the appeal of violent extremist organizations. The show depicts a main character that serves as a role model who promotes positive social values, raises awareness on key issues facing Pakistani youth, and demonstrates good behavior.
MSI is seeking a Childhood Education Specialist to guide the assessment team in developing instruments and protocols for soliciting information from children 8-12 years of age on the effects of Burka Avenger on perceptions of key themes.
The assessment is expected to last from October 2015 to January 2016.
Responsibilities:
- Under the direction of the team leader and MSI/PERFORM staff, the Childhood Education Specialist will participate in all aspects of the assessment including:
- Designing the assessment approach.
- Developing data collection instruments, a data collection plan, and a data analysis plan.
- Participating in fieldwork.
- Conducting focus group discussions with children (if qualified).
- Analyzing qualitative and quantitative data.
- Presenting results to USAID/Pakistan and implementing partners.
- Writing reports and briefing papers.
Qualifications:
- At least a Master’s degree in education, child psychology, or another relevant field and 10 years of professional experience.
- Demonstrated experience working with children. Experience moderating focus group discussions with children is a plus.
- Excellent personal communication and English writing skills.
- Fluent in qualitative research methods.
- Experience working in complex environments.
Only candidates who have been selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls, please.
MSI is an EEO/AA/ADA Veterans Employer.