Tessa Bloechl
From CAPI to CATI: Survey Adaptation for COVID-19 in Kenya
I have spent the last few months virtually connected to Kenya through two different internship opportunities that have allowed me to explore two important elements of global development and sustainability- micro-loans and environmental amelioration. At the impact evaluation internship with Acacia Innovations, I worked alongside the sales team to develop a survey aimed at measuring the effectiveness of a household charcoal product made of sugarcane waste. The product- mainly used in cooking- has been successfully adopted by schools across the country and produces much less smoke than traditional charcoal or firewood. I also conducted research to determine the environmental impact that Acacia can scientifically claim its products have had on the environment. Additionally, I worked with a research team at Gui2de to code a survey for the purpose of measuring the success of a loan product for duka (small shop) owners. The activities of both Acacia and Gui2de were heavily impacted by COVID-19 and I was able to absorb a great deal by observing and participating in their adaptation strategies.