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About GEM

What is the Gender Evaluation Methodology for Internet and ICTs (GEM)?

GEM is a guide to integrating a gender analysis into evaluations of initiatives that use Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for social change.

GEM provides a means for determining whether ICTs are really improving women's lives and gender relations as well as promoting positive change at the individual, institutional, community and broader social levels.

The guide provides users with an overview of the evaluation process (including links to general evaluation resources) and outlines suggested strategies and methodologies for incorporating a gender analysis throughout the evaluation process. GEM does not contain step-by-step instructions to conducting evaluations.

GEM is not simply an evaluation tool. It can also be used to ensure that a gender concerns are integrated into a project planning process.

Finally, GEM is an evolving guide! In its practical use we encourage critical thoughts and creative adaptations. Throughout this web site you will find forms where you can submit your comments, suggestions, stories, strategies, or resources.

Why was GEM developed?

The Association for Progressive Communications Women's Networking Support Programme (APC WNSP) developed GEM to facilitate the process of learning about using information and communication technologies (ICTs) for gender equality.

ICT use is increasing everywhere. In particular, women are using ICTs to strengthen their organization and movement building at the local, regional and global levels. ICTs, however, can also pose a potential threat to women. ICTs can be used in ways that replicate or perpetuate gender stereotypes and biases, and can have unintended negative impacts.

Gender evaluation methodologies, therefore, can be used to investigate whether ICTs are being used in ways that change gender biases and roles and do not simply reproduce and replicate existing ones. As more and more of today's development work and money is channelled into projects that employ ICTs, their effects on women are of great importance.

For women, the accessibility of ICTs requires adequate equipment, information, financing, organization, training and time.

Who is GEM designed for?

GEM is intended to meet the needs of ICT practitioners seeking appropriate gender analysis tools and frameworks for their information and communication technology (ICT) interventions.

The tool is for APC WNSP members as well as other practitioners who share a common commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment in ICTs, including:

· ICT initiatives for social change

· Project managers and project staff using ICT in projects without a specific gender or women's focus

· Evaluators working in the IT field

· Donors and development agency staff working in the IT field

· Gender focal points that support women's and IT issues

· Policy makers

· ICT planners

· Consultants in the area of gender and ICTs

Where is GEM available?

The guide is available on-line in the GEM Tool section.

The GEM Practitioners Network

The GEM Practitioners Network is a network of individuals and organizations, who apply GEM and want to learn more about gender and ICT evaluations. The Network aims to enhance GEM expertise, and build partnerships in order to incorporate a gender perspective in evaluation of ICT initiatives, and to promote gender accountability in global, regional, national and local ICT policies and initiatives. Read more about the Network here.

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