Using SenseMaker to understand girls' lives

The Girl Hub SenseMaker® case study explores the use of SenseMaker®, an innovative, narrative-based research methodology, to gather girl-centered evidence in Rwanda and Ethiopia. This approach enables large-scale story collection and analysis to identify social patterns, behaviors, and perceptions affecting girls' lives.

SenseMaker® bridges the gap between qualitative case studies and large surveys by allowing respondents to analyse their own stories, reducing bias. The methodology was first piloted in Rwanda in 2011 and later expanded to Ethiopia, focusing on themes such as education, gender-based violence, social isolation, and decision-making power.

Findings from the study have influenced Girl Hub’s programs, including advocacy efforts against violence, the development of the Yegna radio drama in Ethiopia, and research on girls' migration trends. Despite challenges like child protection concerns and the need for researcher training, Girl Hub continues to refine and expand its use of SenseMaker® for program monitoring and evaluation.