Speakers

Edward Frongillo, University of South Carolina, Professor | Jef Leroy, International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) 

Session overview

The objective of this learning lab is to provide an understanding of how linear growth can and should be used as a measure in development that is grounded in evidence on the processes, determinants, and outcomes of linear growth. The lab will first present the history of using growth as a measure of healthy development of infants and young children. We will then discuss measures and indicators. We will apply these concepts to understand the meaning of child linear growth retardation, differentiating between outcomes to which poor linear growth is causally linked and outcomes for which growth is instead a marker. Building on this evidence, we will conclude with the appropriate use of linear growth as a measure in development.

Learning objectives/outcomes

• Know the history of using linear growth.
• Understand the difference between methods of measurement, measures, and indicators.
• Appreciate the importance of defining the purpose of using measures and indicators: (1) is the purpose to make statements about individuals vs groups of individuals? (2) is the purpose to estimate the prevalence, monitor, assess impact, target, etc?
• Know the scientific evidence on the impact of poor linear growth on other outcomes.
• Understand how the available evidence changes how (stunted linear growth) should be used in development.

Target audience

Nutrition programmers, funders, scientists

Format, level and prerequisites

A combination of formats will be combined including small group work (brainstorming, discussion), direct teaching, and Q&A. Level is advanced as participants need to have experience analysing, using, or interpreting child length/height data.