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Thematic learning programme : 'planning, monitoring and evaluation of complex processes of social change' : experiences gained from setting up a collaborative action research programme on the PM&E of complex change processes


Document type: report
Download file(s): 352095 (906 KB)
Abstract: The nine Dutch development organisations and one Belgian NGO that were considering to join the PSO Thematic Learning Programme (TLP) on Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation (PM&E) were struggling with various issues before deciding to join. How to balance accountability and learning? How to ‘measure’ and gain insights into processes of (behavioural) change? How to combine figures and stories? This learning brief describes the setting up of a collaborative action research process which centred on these questions with the participating organisations. The experiences in this ongoing programme may provide insights into the dynamics of setting up a joint action research initiative in which all those involved are learning from their own practice, as well as from each other. This learning brief also aims to illustrate that finding time and space to really reflect and learn is vital for change, but is also increasingly difficult in current times in which people, organisations, sectors, communities and even whole countries in the aid environment are being assessed for delivering measurable, observable and clearcut results. Furthermore, and in any event, learning is key for doing things better and doing better things, and thus obtaining relevant results. Action research (AR) can support this. This is one of the key features of this process that responds to a serious deficit in the development sector: learning from practice for better results.
Authors: Maarse, A. , Temmink, C. , Ongevalle, J. van , Huyse, H. , Soal, S. , Boutylkova, E.
Series Title: Learning Brief
Country: Belgium , Netherlands
Category: Practice
Serial number: 1
Keywords: evaluation , international cooperation , non-governmental organizations
Language: eng
Organization: PSO - Capacity Building in Developing Countries
PAGE: 8
Place: The Hague
Publisher: PSO
Year: 2011
Region: Western Europe
Right: © 2011 PSO
Subject: Development Cooperation General
Title: Thematic learning programme : 'planning, monitoring and evaluation of complex processes of social change' : experiences gained from setting up a collaborative action research programme on the PM&E of complex change processes