Platform: Philanthropy University
Duration: Self-paced
Certification: Yes, free
The Planning for Monitoring and Evaluation course introduces learners to essential concepts and practical tools for effective project management. Designed into five structured modules, it focuses on defining and measuring project goals, outputs, outcomes, and impacts. Participants explore project design, logical frameworks (logframes), performance indicators, data collection methods, and the development of an M&E plan. By the end of the course, learners create a customized M&E plan, equipping them with skills to track progress, communicate successes, and implement necessary improvements.
The course is instructed by Mr. Peter Njuguna, a Program and Database Manager at The National Organization of Peer Educators (NOPE). With over 20 years of experience in capacity building and community-led initiatives, he provides valuable real-world insights into M&E practices.
This asynchronous course offers flexibility, making it ideal for beginners. It starts with foundational concepts before progressing to more advanced topics like refining data quality, identifying risks and assumptions, and designing actionable M&E plans.
It integrates various interactive components to enhance learning and practical application. Pre- and post-assessments help measure learning progress and reinforce key concepts. Supplementary resources, such as the Wealth Index and Indikit, provide valuable tools for selecting appropriate indicators. To support structured M&E planning, the course offers guidance on logical flow and data collection, helping learners improve project design and develop effective data collection strategies. Additionally, practical tools, including participant tracking forms and data flow maps, aid in organizing and monitoring project data. Finally, hands-on assignments, such as logframes, indicator documents, and roles-and-responsibilities charts, ensure that learners can bridge theory with real-world application, equipping them with essential skills for M&E success.
The course is divided into five modules, each covering key aspects of monitoring and evaluation. Module 1 introduces the fundamentals of M&E, including its definitions, importance, and role in the project cycle, while guiding learners in developing an M&E plan with essential components like logframes and indicators. Module 2 focuses on the logframe as a project design tool, helping participants define activities, outcomes, risks, and assumptions while linking them to M&E activities. Module 3 teaches the selection of performance indicators, setting targets, and evaluating indicator quality using USAID’s seven criteria. Module 4 covers data collection methods, best practices for ensuring data quality, and the design of tools like participant tracking forms. Finally, Module 5 delves into data management, flow mapping, and role assignments, culminating in the development of a comprehensive M&E plan.
To earn certification, learners must score at least 50%. Quizzes contribute 15% of the final grade, while assignments account for 85%. The peer-review system enhances fairness and engagement.
This course excels in delivering complex M&E concepts in a structured, easy-to-follow manner. The emphasis on practical applications, such as creating logframes and designing data collection tools, makes it highly relevant for real-world scenarios. Peter Njuguna’s expertise, combined with real-life examples, adds depth to the learning experience.
We found the course engaging and insightful, particularly in enhancing skills for designing M&E strategies and measuring project impact. This introductory course is highly recommended for students studying social sciences, particularly agricultural extension, as Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) of development projects is a key area where extension specialists can find employment. Additionally, for working professionals, it enhances their ability to assess and improve program effectiveness, leading to better planning.
The course also provides foundational M&E knowledge, complementing the in-depth methodologies and tools covered in the ICAR M.Sc. Agricultural Extension Education course (EXT 507: Evaluation and Impact Assessment).
The Planning for Monitoring and Evaluation course is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their project management and evaluation skills. Whether you’re new to M&E or seeking to refine your expertise, this course provides the necessary tools and guidance to drive project success and impact.
Ayush Emmanuel Lal is a Research Intern at the Centre for Research on Innovation in Science Policy (CRISP). He holds a postgraduate degree in Agricultural Extension and Communication from Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Prayagraj. His research interests are adoption behaviour and gender issues in agriculture. He can be reached at ayushlal0712@gmail.com.
Shaktiranjan Das is a PhD scholar in Agricultural Extension at Visva-Bharati University. His doctoral research focuses on the agripreneurial ecosystem. He can be reached at shaktiranjandas92@gmail.com.
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