International Course on Participatory Monitoring & Evaluation (PME)

Planning and implementation of development initiatives have often received greater attention than monitoring, evaluation and learning (M&E) of such initiatives. The growing concern for M&E can be attributed to such conditions as scarcity of funds; a new slant in management towards accountability and results; trends towards decentralization and devolution; and the growing capacity of NGOs and community-based organizations (CBOs). M&E activities that emerged in response to these concerns have often been focused on measurements, externally driven, oriented to the needs of the donors and policy-makers rather than local stakeholders. At the same time, there is a growing global appreciation and understanding of participation as a critical element in development. Methods in participatory research have evolved in support of participatory development activities. These methods include participatory action research (PAR), rapid rural appraisal (RRA), participatory rural appraisal (PRA), participatory learning and action (PLA), and farming systems research (FSR).

Course description

This methods course is based on IIRR's framework for participatory planning, monitoring & evaluation for learning (PPMEL).  In IIRR, monitoring & evaluation is embedded from the very start of planning:  M&E provides the discipline of thinking what the results of every program and project should be at the design stage of the project, specifically in terms of output, outcome and impact. Progressive M&E in the course of the project provides learning that can be applied to subsequent stages of every project.  IIRR shares this planning/monitoring framework as a tool for strengthening M&E systems, enhancing participation and increasing local people’s capacity, confidence and control over development decisions and processes.

Content

The course is organized around four modules:

Module 1: Situational analysis - provides participants the opportunity to review the global and organizational contexts within
which PM&E is implemented.
Module 2: Designing and Facilitating the PM&E Process – focuses on the PM&E processes and details the requirements in designing and implementing PM&E.
Module 3: Strengthening Systems for PM&E – describes elements that support the establishment and maintenance of PM&E in the context of development organizations.
Module 4: Action planning – provides participants the opportunity to reflect on, synthesize and apply their learning from the
course through developing an action plan.

Who should attend?

The course is intended for planning, monitoring and evaluation officers, program officers, project managers, research/action research officers, trainer/extension workers, community animators/facilitators and advocacy workers. Participants should have at least 2 years direct experience in planning, implementing or managing monitoring and evaluation activities. English proficiency is a requirement.

When and where

The three-week course will be held on August 11-29, 2008 at IIRR’s Y.C. James Yen Center in Cavite, Philippines. IIRR is an ideal environment for learning and reflection. Courses are held in IIRR’s 50-hectare campus in Silang, Cavite, about an hour’s drive from Manila. Facilities include air-conditioned training rooms, open-air centers for outdoor sessions, and participants’ hostel and dormitories.

Course fees

The course fee of US$2,500 covers tuition, course-related local travel, materials, meals, personal accident insurance coverage and shared double room accommodation. Single room accommodation can be arranged for an additional fee of US$10/day. The fee does not include international airfare, laundry and incidental expenses. Applicants are encouraged to secure financial support from their organizations or donor agencies.

Special reduced rates

Participants who register and confirm their participation on or before July 1, 2008 will get an early-registration discount of 10%. We also offer special, reduced rates to organizations with multiple participants: 3-5 participants from the same organization get 10% discount, and 6-8 participants get 15% off. For organizations with 8 or more interested staff, IIRR can develop a customized course suited their specific needs and requirements.

How to apply

Application forms can be downloaded here and sent by fax or email. For further inquiries please contact.

International Institute of Rural Reconstruction
Yen Center, Km 39, Silang, Cavite 4118, Philippines
Tel: (63-2) 886-4385 to 87 or (63-46) 414-2417 local 521
Fax: (63-46) 414-2417 loc 2
E-mail: Education.Training@iirr.org

Testimonials from course alumni:

"The course made think differently and innovatively and to work in a different style. It also changed my views." Kesavan Mylvaganam Programme Support Officer Oxfam GB, Sri Lankay Participant to the 2007 PM&E course
"This an excellent course because I can use the learnings in my professional field." Mr. MAMUNUR RASHID Coordinator (Planning & Monitoring Unit) Caritas - Bangladesh PME ‘07 Participant
"The course is good!  I had now much better understanding and confidence about PME." WALAHAKA MUDALIGE PERERA Monitoring and Evaluation Coordinator Oxfam GB – Sri Lanka PME ’07 Participant
"This is very important for me because it has improved my knowledge and skills (on PME) and I learned many things here.  Very good course!  I will come back again for another course!" Mr. VALENTINO MARCAL Program Manager Yayasan Sosial Naroman (Yasona) – Timor Leste PME ’07 Participant

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