Introduction to Monitoring and Evaluation

In an increasingly results-driven world, professionals working across a variety of organizations, including NGOs, government agencies, the philanthropic sector, and multilateral institutions, need robust systems to track progress and measure impact. This foundational course introduces professionals to the core concepts, frameworks, and tools of monitoring and evaluation (M&E), with a focus on bridging theory and implementation.
You will begin by exploring how M&E is embedded in the lifecycle of development programs and interventions. The course then guides you through the design of logical frameworks, theories of change, indicator systems, and performance metrics. You'll learn how to formulate evaluative questions, select appropriate data sources, and interpret evidence to inform decision-making.
By engaging with real-world case studies across sectors, participants will develop a practical lens for:

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  Distinguishing between monitoring, evaluation, process evaluation, outcome evaluation, and impact evaluation
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  Translating program goals into measurable indicators and performance metrics
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  Assessing data quality, designing data collection tools, and planning M&E
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  Using evaluation outputs to guide adaptive management, accountability, and strategic planning

Introduction to Monitoring & Evaluation is ideal for professionals new to the field of monitoring and evaluation, managers overseeing programs who want to strengthen accountability, or program officers and analysts seeking to integrate evidence-based practices into their work.
This course serves as the foundational stepping stone for subsequent certificate courses in program design, quantitative and qualitative methods, and reporting and presenting results.
This course includes four synchronous sessions, and students are required to attend at least two.
 
Continuing Education Units (CEU) : 4

You'll walk away with

• An understanding of what M&E means
• Insight to compare and contrast the needs and expectations of different audiences in M&E
• The skills to articulate ethical and basic principles of good M&E practice
• A developed knowledge of a basic M&E framework

Ideal for

• Professionals interested in the field of monitoring and evaluation
• Students pursuing the Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation