Advanced Diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation
Business, Commerce and Management Studies - Generic Management
Purpose and Rationale
Purpose: The Advanced Diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation aims to provide entry-level vocational or professional preparation for learners, offering specialized training that meets the demands of the labor market. This qualification equips individuals across various sectors with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively design, implement, and manage monitoring and evaluation systems. By imparting relevant theories, methodologies, tools, and techniques, the program nurtures a cadre of competent professionals, managers, and subject matter experts in monitoring and evaluation.
Rationale: The need for specialized training in monitoring and evaluation has grown significantly in Africa, driven by government initiatives, donor requirements, and public expectations for transparent and accountable development projects. As identified in an OECD report, there is a skills gap in the Free State Province, necessitating qualifications tailored to regional needs. The institution's commitment to fostering knowledge and skills for socio-economic development, as outlined in Vision 2020, influenced the creation of this diploma.
Despite the efforts of organizations like the South African Monitoring and Evaluation Association (SAMEA) to enhance professional capacity, there remains a reliance on short-term training programs. Consequently, there is a mounting pressure for accredited training in monitoring and evaluation studies nationwide. The absence of formal qualifications in monitoring and evaluation in the Free State Province underscored the necessity for this diploma. This qualification caters to a broad spectrum of professionals, including employees, supervisors, managers, and subject matter experts in the public, private, and non-governmental sectors, addressing the growing demand for skilled monitoring and evaluation practitioners.
Outcomes
- Demonstrate a good understanding of M and E concepts, fundamental theories and practices and apply and evaluate such concepts, theories and practices in an integrative manner.
- Apply various methods and procedures in developing project/program logic/design and be able to evaluate and apply appropriate method/procedure procedures in developing a project/program logic/design and M and E framework.
- Demonstrate sound ethical behaviour and professional competence in addressing complex M and E problems by applying evidence-based and theory-driven arguments and solutions in program implementation.
- Apply a range of methods of enquiry in M and E to design an M and E systems/processes based on the understanding that the context influences M and E systems/processes.
- Develop and apply appropriate and reliable M and E information/ data gathering processes tools, methods and procedures.
- Manage their learning and take full accountability/responsibility for their actions.
- Produce and communicate own ideas and opinions in well-informed arguments using appropriate academic, professional M and E discourse.
Assessment Criteria
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
- Explain what is meant by monitoring and evaluation.
- Differentiate between monitoring and evaluation as concepts in program development and implementation.
- Differentiate between clarificatory, process, and impact evaluation.
- Discuss challenges facing monitoring and evaluation practitioners.
- Describe the monitoring and evaluation process.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
- Identify and generate qualitative and quantitative indicators in monitoring and evaluation.
- Develop and structure indicators for qualification development and implementation.
- Identify logic framework components and construct a logic framework.
- Identify and describe the essential components of the M and E framework.
- Assess the achievement of goals and objectives.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
- Explain the concepts of efficiency, effectiveness, and impact.
- Generate reliable indicators and variables of interest for the three aspects after carefully evaluating the indicators.
- Identify indicators as measurable or tangible signs.
- Conduct a baseline, target setting, and link to the portfolio of evidence.
- Analyse M and E data using the correct tools, methods, and techniques.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
- Develop terms of references for an evaluation process.
- Formulate the purpose of evaluation and key evaluation questions.
- Design baseline process and impact evaluations.
- Direct and implement the phases of robust and results-based monitoring and evaluation framework.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
- Identify population, sampling, and triangulation issues in monitoring and evaluation.
- Explain the uses or importance of monitoring and evaluation information.
- Describe data types in monitoring and evaluation.
- Describe quantitative and qualitative data collection tools.
- Explain the advantages and disadvantages of data collection tools.
- Collect and evaluate data that is for decision making.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
- Reflect on and identify own strategies to learn more effectively.
- Challenge embrace new thinking in the field of M and E.
- Manage their work/study schedules, including submitting tests and assignments on time and producing their M and E reports on time.
- Assess the full range of project effects, both intended and unintended.
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
- Communicate findings in monitoring and evaluation.
- Explain the purpose of reporting monitoring and evaluation information.
- Outline/structure of an evaluation report.
- Compile work-based monitoring and evaluation research report.
Integrated Assessment:
Formative assessment:
- Continuous formative assessment comprising a variety of individual and group activities.
- Decision making in a practical M and E setting.
- Treat several outcomes and assessment criteria together.
- Use a combination of assessment methods.
- Collect naturally occurring evidence or through simulation.
Summative assessment:
- Comprises formal tests, reports, individual assignments, case studies, and a work-based monitoring and evaluation research project.
- Involves decision making in a practical M and E setting.
- The work-based monitoring and evaluation research report evaluates the learner's use and application of M and E theories and methodological skills.
Qualification Details
- Type
- Advanced Diploma
- NQF Level
- 07
- Min. Credits
- 120
- SAQA Source
- More Information
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