Training Course on Developing a Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) Strategy

Course Outline

Module 1: Foundations of MEAL Strategy

ü  Understanding the 'M', 'E', 'A', and 'L' components

ü  The evolution from M&E to MEAL

ü  The role of a MEAL strategy in the project cycle

ü  Key principles for an effective MEAL system

ü  Practical Session: Group exercise on identifying MEAL challenges and opportunities in participants' own projects.

Module 2: Designing the MEAL Strategy: Scoping and Planning

ü  Conducting a needs assessment for the MEAL strategy

ü  Stakeholder analysis and engagement in the MEAL process

ü  Defining the purpose, scope, and audience of the MEAL strategy

ü  Budgeting and resource planning for MEAL activities

ü  Practical Session: Developing a MEAL planning matrix for a case study project.

Module 3: Developing MEAL Frameworks: Theory of Change and Logical Frameworks

ü  Introduction to Theory of Change (ToC) thinking

ü  Step-by-step process of developing a ToC

ü  Understanding the components of a Logical Framework (LogFrame)

ü  Linking the ToC to the LogFrame for coherent planning

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

Module 4: Indicator Development and Performance Monitoring

ü  Defining and selecting relevant indicators (output, outcome, impact)

ü  Ensuring indicators are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)

ü  Developing an Indicator Performance Tracking Table (IPTT)

ü  Setting baselines, targets, and milestones

ü  Practical Session: Developing a set of SMART indicators and an IPTT for the case study LogFrame.

Module 5: Data Collection Methods and Tools

ü  Overview of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods approaches

ü  Choosing the right data collection method for your indicators

ü  Designing data collection tools (surveys, KII guides, FGD guides)

ü  Introduction to mobile data collection (MDC) technologies

ü  Practical Session: Designing a short questionnaire and a focus group discussion guide.

Module 6: Data Quality, Management, and Analysis

ü  Ensuring data quality: validity, reliability, and precision

ü  Developing a Data Flow Map and Management Plan

ü  Introduction to quantitative data analysis (descriptive statistics)

ü  Introduction to qualitative data analysis (thematic analysis)

ü  Practical Session: Group exercise on data cleaning and conducting a basic analysis of a sample dataset.

Module 7: Planning and Managing Evaluations

ü  Types of evaluations (e.g., baseline, mid-term, final, impact)

ü  Developing evaluation questions and a Terms of Reference (ToR)

ü  Understanding key evaluation criteria (e.g., OECD-DAC criteria)

ü  Managing the evaluation process, from hiring consultants to dissemination

ü  Practical Session: Drafting a Terms of Reference (ToR) for a mid-term project evaluation.

Module 8: Integrating Accountability into MEAL

ü  Understanding Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP)

ü  Core components of an accountability framework

ü  Designing and implementing community feedback and response mechanisms (FRMs)

ü  Ensuring transparency and information sharing with communities

ü  Practical Session: Role-playing and designing a community feedback mechanism for a specific context.

Module 9: Fostering Learning and Adaptive Management

ü  Distinguishing between accountability and learning

ü  Creating spaces and processes for reflection and learning (e.g., pause and reflect sessions)

ü  Documenting lessons learned and good practices

ü  Using MEAL data for adaptive management and decision-making

ü  Practical Session: Developing a learning agenda and facilitating a mock "pause and reflect" session.

Module 10: Operationalizing the MEAL Strategy and Finalizing the Document

ü  Structuring a comprehensive MEAL Strategy document

ü  Developing a MEAL implementation plan and calendar

ü  Communicating and disseminating MEAL findings to different audiences

ü  Strategies for building MEAL capacity within a team

ü  Practical Session: Finalizing a draft MEAL strategy document based on the work completed throughout the course.

About Our Trainers

Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with extensive experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning across various sectors, including humanitarian aid, public health, governance, and agricultural development. They combine deep theoretical knowledge with practical, on-the-ground experience from working with NGOs, UN agencies, and government bodies. Their expertise in adult learning principles ensures a training experience that is engaging, participatory, and highly relevant to the real-world challenges faced by participants.

Quality Statement

Phoenix Training Center is committed to delivering high-quality, impactful training that meets the evolving needs of development and humanitarian professionals. We ensure our course content is current, practical, and aligned with global best practices. Participant feedback is integral to our continuous improvement process, guaranteeing a valuable and satisfying learning experience.

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