The Finnish Youth Research Network fulfils the research module of The Finnish National Youth Council Allianssi’s Evaluation and monitoring of the activities of youth organisations in the Nordics - what can be learned from the Nordic countries? -project. The research module is comprised of a literature review and interview-based survey for finding out information about the methods, tools and operating methods used in different Nordic countries to assist in the evaluation and quality monitoring of non-governmental youth organisation activities, especially concerning the effectiveness monitoring of activities.

It is known from earlier studies that there are several different means, methods, indicators and tools to monitor activities and their effectiveness in use in youth organisations. This diversity can be explained by the differences in youth organisations’ choice of activities and focus groups, as well as the various needs to measure and report outcomes, activities, and effectiveness. In addition, the expenditure limitations set by financiers as well as the changing operational environment affect the activities of youth organisations, thus the funding and evaluation demands methods in use may not assist a given organisation’s evaluation needs effectively. The study project also aims to produce information and identify “the best practices for the evaluation and quality monitoring of youth organisations” to create good suggestions of methods to use more broadly among youth organisations. This study project is going to be accomplished in co-operation with the national youth councils (meaning national coordinating organisation for youth organisations) in the Nordic countries.

Along with Anu Gretschel and Kai Tarvainen also Viola Särkiluoto have been working with the project.

Funding

The study project is funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers.