Written by Mekong Institute

This Project Monitoring and Evaluation Learning Program was co-designed and delivered by the GMS Phnom Penh Plan for Development Management (PPP) and the Mekong Institute (MI).The program was designed as a deepening and follow up program for alumni of the Phnom Penh Plan who have attended previous learning programs on project management, as well as byproject management practitioners who are civil servants in the GMS countries. The program was conducted from 7 to 18 May, 2012 at the Mekong Institute Residential Training Center, Khon Kaen, Thailand. Overall objectives of this learning program was to develop participants capacity to design, plan and implement effective monitoring and evaluation missions or assignments especially on projects which have transnational or subregional/transboundary implications.

Twenty government official participants from Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam attended the learning program. At the end of the learning program, participants developed action plans on how to apply acquired knowledge and skills in the workplace. The
total average rating for attainment of overall program objectives was rated 4.20 – very well attained by the participants. The program was designed and taught by a team of four project management experts. In evaluation, the participants reported that the trainers were qualified, experienced and employed effective training delivery methods.   

The program was divided into four modules to simulate the actual phases of doing Project Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E). Module 1 is the course overview, focusing the discussion on the M&E framework, review of the Design Monitoring Framework (DMF) and Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) as basis for doing Project Monitoring and Evaluation. Module 2 is about the principles of M&E, which include Participatory M&E and Stakeholder Analysis. In Module 3, Planning and Implementing M&E covers Quantitative and Qualitative Data Gathering
Tools and Techniques, Data Sampling, Measuring Differences using Before-After and With-Without Analysis, Team Composition, and preparing M&E Implementation Plan. Module 4 is Data Analysis using statistical techniques such as Significance, Necessity and Sufficiency.The module covers also Earned Value Management System, Evaluation using REESI criteria, and Report Writing.

The Program learning methodologies included practical applications of project Monitoring and Evaluation principles, techniques and tools through group exercises and case studies. The overall results of program evaluation show that participants were highly satisfied with the learning contents and methodologies. Outcomes of the program include knowledge and skills gained for professional development. Participants acquired professional skills such as presentation, communication, team, internet research, and professional networking. Based on the feedback received, this report concludes that the learning program was successful. Finally, recommendations for further program improvement are provided in Part 4 of this report.

Simplify and use different case studies highlighting different aspects (social, economic etc.) to make it easier for the participants to apply their theoretical knowledge practically
in the case studies.

Extend the duration of the course schedule, especially the coaching sessions and sharing GMS experiences sessions.

Provide references for the contents of the presentations.

Lecture handouts should be provided in advance.

Field visit should be thoroughly prepared and well planned.