Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Training Course

Course Level: Intermediate

Course Objectives

At the end of this IRES training course, participants will learn:

• Understanding the fundamentals of M&E: Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the key concepts, principles, and approaches of M&E in the context of program planning, implementation, and evaluation.
• Developing M&E frameworks and indicators: Participants will learn how to design and develop M&E frameworks, including setting clear objectives, defining measurable indicators, and establishing data collection methods.
• Data collection and analysis: The training will cover various data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, and participants will learn how to collect and analyze data effectively to inform decision-making.
• Impact evaluation: Participants will acquire knowledge and skills in conducting impact evaluations to assess the long-term effects and outcomes of programs, including the use of experimental and quasi-experimental designs.
• Reporting and communication: The training will focus on effectively communicating M&E findings and results to stakeholders through clear and concise reports, presentations, and visualizations.
• Utilizing M&E for program improvement: Participants will understand how to use M&E data to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement within programs, leading to evidence-based decision-making and adaptive management.
• Ensuring accountability and learning: The training will emphasize the importance of accountability in M&E, including mechanisms for feedback, learning, and continuous improvement within organizations and projects.
• Ethical considerations in M&E: Participants will learn about ethical considerations and best practices in data collection, storage, and analysis, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and protecting the rights and privacy of participants.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Monitoring and Evaluation

• Understanding the purpose and significance of M&E
• Exploring the key components of an effective M&E system
• Recognizing the role of M&E in organizational decision-making

Module 2: M&E Frameworks and Models

• Overview of different M&E frameworks and models
• Understanding the logical framework approach (LFA)
• Applying results-based management (RBM) principles to M&E

Module 3: Developing M&E Plans

• Steps involved in developing an M&E plan
• Identifying key performance indicators (KPIs)
• Designing data collection methods and tools

Module 4: Data Collection and Management

• Techniques for collecting quantitative and qualitative data
• Sampling methods and sample size determination
• Data quality assurance and management

Module 5: Data Analysis and Interpretation

• Introduction to data analysis techniques
• Analyzing quantitative data using statistical software
• Interpreting and presenting M&E findings effectively

Module 6: Utilizing Technology in M&E

• Exploring digital tools and software for data collection and analysis
• Using mobile data collection platforms
• Harnessing the power of data visualization for effective reporting

Module 7: M&E for Learning and Adaptive Management

• Incorporating learning and adaptive management principles in M&E
• Utilizing feedback mechanisms for continuous improvement
• Promoting evidence-based decision-making through M&E

Module 8: Impact Evaluation

• Understanding impact evaluation methods
• Experimental and quasi-experimental designs
• Conducting impact evaluations and interpreting results

Module 9: M&E for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

• Aligning M&E practices with the SDGs
• Tracking progress and measuring impact on the SDGs
• Integrating the SDGs into M&E frameworks

Module 10: Building a Culture of M&E

• Promoting M&E as a strategic function within organizations
• Engaging stakeholders in M&E processes
• Overcoming challenges and barriers to implementing M&E