Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning | A Guide for NHRIs in the Asia Pacific Module 1: Understanding MEAL Module 1: Understanding MEAL LEARNING OVERVIEW By the end of this module you will: • be familiar with MEAL and why it is important for NHRIs, • have some tools to build a MEAL culture in your NHRI, • understand the difference between ‘outcomes’ and ‘outputs’ thinking and the benefits of moving to outcomes-thinking, • be aware of the challenges related to using MEAL in your NHRI, • understand the main concepts of gender mainstreaming, ethics and accountability. You will also know when to develop a MEAL Framework and/or a MEAL Plan. 10