Collect and process the data

How do we Evaluate Programmes?

Executing  the M&E action

See

• Data collection methods;

• Define the data to collect  

The first step generally involves introducing a range of stakeholders to MSC and fostering interest and commitment to participate.

Stories are collected from those most directly involved, such as participants and field staff. The stories are collected by asking a simple question such as: ‘During the last month, in your opinion, what was the most significant change that took place for participants in the program?’

note: In the field: Recording your notes   Taking notes is important, before, during and after the formal fieldwork activities and interviews. During the fieldwork write as much as possible in your note books, and ensure that this is finally written up immediately after field exercises. Be as comprehensive and as clear as possible. As a general rule, facilitators should not take notes themselves, but leave this to other team members. This will enable them to concentrate on the subject they are facilitating. It is also important to take notes sensitively and with due courtesy. At the outset of the process, the facilitator should explain why it is important to record the discussion and also explain how documented information will be used. Notes may include the fieldworker's own observations, the important things that are said in the course of a group activity that may or may not be reflected in the formal outputs of the activity, pieces of testimony casually provided outside of the formal encounters, etc. It is always important to record exactly participants' discussion and analysis. Note especially insightful remarks or analysis by participants, and record them precisely. However, be selective – not everything can be written down. Remember, also, that a few authentic quotations enhance the impact of a synthesis report.