The methods and case studies under the theme of Gathering Evidence will help you:

• carry out experiments, surveys, observations and measurements 
• find clues or proof that help you figure out if something is true or if it works
• understand if an innovation or invention is good or helpful

For example, if someone claims ‘This new app helps kids learn maths better’, evidence could include be test scores or feedback from kids who used the app.

Why is evidence important?

Evidence helps us make good decisions.

Let’s say a group of people wants to build a new playground. They’d need evidence to know if kids will like it, if it’s safe, and if it fits in the community.

They might collect data by asking kids what they want, watching how kids play, or testing the materials. This way, they can make sure the playground is fun and safe for everyone.

Evidence is like a guide that helps us avoid mistakes and make things better for people, especially those who are often left out, like disabled children or people in poorer communities.

Types of evidence

There are 2 main types of data: quantitative and qualitative.

• Quantitative means counting or measuring things with numbers. For example ‘there are 10 apples and 5 bananas in the basket’
• Qualitative data means describing the qualities of or your experiences of something. For example, ‘the apples are sweet and crunchy, and the bananas are soft and perfect for smoothies’ It’s all about the details and feelings! 

Together, these 2 types of data help us understand not just how many fruits there are, but also what they’re like and why people enjoy them.

Inclusive innovation metrics

Inclusive innovation metrics are ways to measure if an innovation helps everyone, especially marginalized groups, and the environment.

For example: 

• What are the backgrounds of people who are using this?
• Can disabled people able to access it easily?
• Were people, especially those often left out (like women, minorities, or young people), involved in making design decisions?
• Does it improve people’s lives in marginalised communities?
• Are innovations supporting good energy use, reducing waste and harmful emissions?
• Are innovations improving people’s health, like access to clean water, healthy food or healthcare, and the health of the planet?
• Are innovations supporting biodiversity, like plants and animals?

By tracking these things, we can create a fairer, healthier, and greener world for all.