Training Course on Designing and Implementing MEAL Frameworks, Data Collection and Analysis for Development Project Managers

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL)

ü  Definition and importance of MEAL in development projects

ü  Key concepts and terminology in MEAL

ü  The MEAL cycle and its integration into the project management cycle

ü  Roles and responsibilities of project managers in MEAL

ü  Challenges and opportunities in implementing effective MEAL

ü  Practical Session: Identifying MEAL needs in a sample project brief

 

Module 2: Developing Theories of Change and Logical Frameworks

ü  Understanding program theory and the role of Theory of Change (ToC)

ü  Steps in developing a Theory of Change

ü  Constructing Logical Frameworks (LogFrames)

ü  Linking ToC and LogFrame to project design and MEAL

ü  Using ToC and LogFrame for monitoring and evaluation

ü  Practical Session: Developing a Theory of Change and LogFrame for a case study project

 

Module 3: Designing MEAL Frameworks and Plans

ü  Components of a comprehensive MEAL framework

ü  Steps in designing a MEAL plan

ü  Budgeting for MEAL activities

ü  Resourcing and staffing for MEAL

ü  Integrating MEAL into project proposals and work plans

ü  Practical Session: Creating a detailed MEAL plan outline for a small project

 

Module 4: Indicator Development and Performance Measurement

ü  Types of indicators: input, output, outcome, impact

ü  Criteria for good indicators (SMART)

ü  Developing indicators for different levels of results

ü  Baselines, targets, and data disaggregation

ü  Establishing data collection frequencies and responsibilities

ü  Practical Session: Developing SMART indicators for a given project objective

 

Module 5: Principles of Quantitative Data Collection

ü  Introduction to quantitative research designs in MEAL

ü  Overview of common quantitative data sources

ü  Ethical considerations in quantitative data collection

ü  Data privacy and confidentiality

ü  Planning for data collection logistics

ü  Practical Session: Identifying appropriate quantitative data sources for different indicators

 

Module 6: Survey Design and Questionnaire Development

ü  Principles of effective questionnaire design

ü  Types of questions and response formats

ü  Avoiding biases in survey questions

ü  Pre-testing and piloting questionnaires

ü  Introduction to digital data collection tools (e.g., KoboToolbox, ODK)

ü  Practical Session: Designing a short survey questionnaire for a specific project outcome

 

Module 7: Sampling Techniques for Quantitative Data

ü  Understanding population and sample

ü  Probability sampling methods (simple random, stratified, cluster)

ü  Non-probability sampling methods (convenience, purposive)

ü  Determining appropriate sample sizes

ü  Addressing sampling challenges in practice

ü  Practical Session: Calculating a sample size and designing a simple sampling strategy

 

Module 8: Quantitative Data Management and Quality Assurance

ü  Principles of good data management

ü  Data cleaning and validation techniques

ü  Ensuring data accuracy and reliability

ü  Data security and storage

ü  Introduction to data analysis software (e.g., Excel, basic Stata/R for data import)

ü  Practical Session: Cleaning and organizing a small quantitative dataset in Excel

 

Module 9: Introduction to Quantitative Data Analysis

ü  Descriptive statistics: mean, median, mode, frequencies, percentages

ü  Data visualization: charts, graphs, and tables

ü  Introduction to inferential statistics (e.g., t-tests, chi-square - conceptual understanding)

ü  Interpreting quantitative data for MEAL

ü  Using quantitative findings to inform project decisions

ü  Practical Session: Generating descriptive statistics and basic charts from a dataset

 

Module 10: Principles of Qualitative Data Collection

ü  Introduction to qualitative research paradigms in MEAL

ü  Understanding the value of qualitative data for context and understanding

ü  Ethical considerations unique to qualitative data collection

ü  Building rapport and ensuring participant safety

ü  Planning qualitative data collection activities

ü  Practical Session: Discussing appropriate qualitative methods for specific MEAL questions

 

Module 11: In-depth Interviews and Focus Group Discussions

ü  Designing interview and FGD guides

ü  Techniques for effective interviewing and facilitation

ü  Note-taking and audio recording best practices

ü  Managing group dynamics in FGDs

ü  Practical tips for conducting successful qualitative fieldwork

ü  Practical Session: Conducting mock in-depth interviews and focus group discussions

 

Module 12: Observational Methods and Participatory Approaches

ü  Types of observation: structured, unstructured, participant

ü  Designing observation protocols

ü  Incorporating participatory methods (e.g., P-RANs, community mapping)

ü  Ethical considerations in observational and participatory methods

ü  Documenting and analyzing observational data

ü  Practical Session: Designing an observation checklist for a project activity

 

Module 13: Qualitative Data Management and Transcription

ü  Organizing qualitative data (audio, notes, transcripts)

ü  Principles of accurate transcription

ü  Anonymization and pseudonymization of qualitative data

ü  Software for qualitative data management (conceptual overview)

ü  Ensuring data security and integrity

ü  Practical Session: Practicing transcription and data organization for qualitative notes

 

Module 14: Qualitative Data Analysis Techniques

ü  Introduction to thematic analysis

ü  Steps in qualitative coding and categorization

ü  Identifying patterns and themes in data

ü  Ensuring rigor and trustworthiness in qualitative analysis

ü  Presenting qualitative findings effectively

ü  Practical Session: Applying thematic analysis to provided qualitative data excerpts

 

Module 15: Introduction to Impact Evaluation and Causal Inference

ü  Differentiating monitoring, evaluation, and impact evaluation

ü  The concept of the counterfactual

ü  Attribution vs. contribution

ü  Overview of common impact evaluation designs (conceptual)

ü  When to consider an impact evaluation for your project

ü  Practical Session: Discussing the challenges of attributing impact in complex projects

 

Module 16: Mixed Methods in MEAL

ü  Understanding mixed methods research designs

ü  Rationale for combining quantitative and qualitative data

ü  Different approaches to integrating data (e.g., triangulation, sequential)

ü  Advantages and disadvantages of mixed methods

ü  Case studies of effective mixed methods MEAL

ü  Practical Session: Designing a mixed methods approach for a given evaluation question

 

Module 17: MEAL Reporting, Communication, and Utilization

ü  Principles of effective MEAL reporting

ü  Tailoring reports for different audiences (donors, beneficiaries, staff)

ü  Data visualization for compelling reports

ü  Communicating findings effectively through presentations and workshops

ü  Strategies for ensuring MEAL findings are utilized for decision-making

ü  Practical Session: Developing key messages and a brief presentation from MEAL findings

 

Module 18: Learning, Adaptive Management, and Ethical Considerations in MEAL

ü  Fostering a culture of learning within projects and organizations

ü  Using MEAL for adaptive management and course correction

ü  Feedback mechanisms for accountability

ü  Advanced ethical considerations in MEAL

ü  Sustaining MEAL systems beyond project cycles

ü  Practical Session: Designing a feedback mechanism for a community-based project

About Our Trainers

Our trainers are highly experienced MEAL and evaluation professionals with over a decade of practical engagement in designing, implementing, and managing development projects across various sectors. They possess deep expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, gained from working with leading international NGOs, UN agencies, government bodies, and research institutions globally. Each trainer holds advanced degrees in relevant fields such as development studies, project management, statistics, and social sciences, ensuring a blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on application. They are skilled facilitators, committed to creating an interactive and impactful learning experience that directly addresses the challenges faced by project managers in the field.

 

Quality Statement

Phoenix Training Center is dedicated to providing training programs of the highest caliber. We are committed to delivering practical, relevant, and up-to-date content in MEAL and evaluation, tailored to the specific needs of development project managers. Our rigorous curriculum, experienced trainers, and interactive methodology ensure that participants gain actionable skills and knowledge that can be immediately applied to enhance project effectiveness and impact. We continuously strive for excellence in our course delivery and participant support.

Admission Criteria

ü  Participants should be reasonably proficient in English. 

ü  Applicants must live up to Phoenix Center for Policy, Research and Training admission criteria.

Terms and Conditions

1. Discounts: Organizations sponsoring Four Participants will have the 5th attend Free
2. What is catered for by the Course Fees: Fees cater for all requirements for the training – Learning materials, Lunches, Teas, Snacks and Certification. All participants will additionally cater for their travel and accommodation expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.
3. Certificate Awarded: Participants are awarded Certificates of Participation at the end of the training.
4. The program content shown here is for guidance purposes only. Our continuous course improvement process may lead to changes in topics and course structure.
5. Approval of Course: Our Programs are NITA Approved. Participating organizations can therefore claim reimbursement on fees paid in accordance with NITA Rules.

Booking for Training

Simply send an email to the Training Officer on training@phoenixtrainingcenter.com and we will send you a registration form. We advise you to book early to avoid missing a seat to this training.

Or call us on +254720272325 / +254737296202

Payment Options

We provide 3 payment options, choose one for your convenience, and kindly make payments at least 5 days before the Training start date to reserve your seat:

1. Groups of 5 People and Above – Cheque Payments to: Phoenix Center for Policy, Research and Training Limited should be paid in advance, 5 days to the training.
2. Invoice: We can send a bill directly to you or your company.
3. Deposit directly into Bank Account (Account details provided upon request)

Cancellation Policy

1. Payment for all courses includes a registration fee, which is non-refundable, and equals 15% of the total sum of the course fee.
2. Participants may cancel attendance 14 days or more prior to the training commencement date.
3. No refunds will be made 14 days or less before the training commencement date. However, participants who are unable to attend may opt to attend a similar training course at a later date or send a substitute participant provided the participation criteria have been met.

Tailor-Made Courses

We understand that every organization has unique training needs. Phoenix Training Center offers tailor-made courses designed to address specific requirements and challenges faced by your team or organization. Whether you need a customized curriculum, a specific duration, or on-site delivery, we can adapt our expertise to provide a training solution that perfectly aligns with your objectives. Contact us to discuss how we can create a bespoke training program for you. For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254720272325 / +254737296202 or Email training@phoenixtrainingcenter.com

 

Accommodation and Airport Pick-up

For physical training attendees, we can assist with recommendations for accommodation near the training venue. Airport pick-up services can also be arranged upon request to ensure a smooth arrival. Please inform us of your travel details in advance if you require these services. For reservations contact the Training Officer on Email: training@phoenixtrainingcenter.com or on Tel: +254720272325 / +254737296202