Master MEAL Frameworks for Results-Based Programs

Inspired by: Anne Markiewicz's Developing MEAL Frameworks

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Master MEAL Frameworks for Results-Based Programs

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Course Overview:

This course empowers participants with the methods and insights to create, implement, and sustain Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) systems that drive program success. Based on the book "Developing Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks" by Anne Markiewicz and Ian Patrick, the course blends conceptual understanding with hands-on methods and frameworks. Participants will learn to design logic models, develop theory of change, align indicators with objectives, and integrate data for adaptive learning. Real-world case studies and participatory methods make this course especially relevant to practitioners working in complex development, humanitarian, and social sectors. By the end, participants will not only know how to design MEAL systems but also how to ensure they support transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making.

Target Audience:

MEAL Officers and Managers
Project and Program Managers
M&E Specialists and Consultants
Development Practitioners and NGO Staff
Donor Agency Staff

Targeted Organizational Departments:

Monitoring and Evaluation Departments
Program Design and Planning Units
Accountability and Learning Teams
Research & Impact Assessment Divisions
Quality Assurance and Compliance Units

Targeted Industries:

International Development
Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief
Public Health and Social Services
Education and Vocational Training
Government and Policy-Making Bodies

Course Offerings:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Design logic models and theories of change that align with program goals
Develop integrated MEAL plans tailored to organizational contexts
Select appropriate qualitative and quantitative indicators
Conduct stakeholder engagement processes in MEAL design
Use MEAL frameworks to support decision-making, accountability, and adaptive learning
Integrate OECD/DAC criteria into evaluation strategies

Training Methodology:

This course uses a participatory and practice-based approach. Learners will engage in case studies, group discussions, and collaborative exercises that simulate real-life MEAL challenges. Interactive workshops will guide participants in developing MEAL methods such as logframes, KPIs, and reporting templates. Daily reflection and review sessions ensure alignment between theory and application. Peer feedback and instructor-led critiques allow for continuous improvement. Each session encourages active learning through experiential techniques to foster both individual and organisational capacity building.

Course toolbox:

Example MEAL Framework Templates
Theory of Change and LogFrame Worksheets
Indicator Selection Checklists
Stakeholder Mapping Methods
Sample Reporting and Learning Templates
Workbook for each module
Recommended readings

Course Agenda:

Day 1: Foundations of MEAL and Scoping

Topic 1: Introduction to MEAL – Concepts, Purposes, and Benefits
Topic 2: Understanding the Integration of Monitoring and Evaluation
Topic 3: Stakeholder Mapping and Engagement Strategies
Topic 4: Scoping the MEAL Framework: Requirements and Boundaries
Topic 5: Reviewing Resource Parameters and Participation Needs
Topic 6: Confirming Framework Purpose and Alignment with Program Design
Reflection & Review: Reflections on MEAL foundations, stakeholder expectations, and setup alignment

Day 2: Program Theory, Logic, and Evaluation Questions

Topic 1: Developing a Theory of Change with Stakeholders
Topic 2: Constructing and Validating a Logic Model
Topic 3: Clarifying Key Assumptions and Intended Results
Topic 4: Formulating Evaluation Questions Across Domains (OECD/DAC)
Topic 5: Prioritising Questions and Data Needs Based on Resources
Topic 6: Finalising Evaluation Questions for Monitoring Integration
Reflection & Review: Review of ToC, Logic Models, and relevance of evaluation focus

Day 3: Designing Monitoring and Evaluation Plans

Topic 1: Drafting a Monitoring Plan Aligned with Evaluation Questions
Topic 2: Selecting Indicators, Baselines, and Performance Targets
Topic 3: Choosing Data Sources, Tools, and Collection Methods
Topic 4: Assigning Monitoring Responsibilities and Scheduling
Topic 5: Outlining the Evaluation Plan and Rubric Design
Topic 6: Choosing Evaluation Methods and Criteria
Reflection & Review: Linking monitoring and evaluation into one coherent strategy

Day 4: Data, Judgment, and Learning Integration

Topic 1: Developing a Data Collection and Management Plan
Topic 2: Ethical Issues in MEAL Data Handling
Topic 3: Data Synthesis and Judgment Techniques
Topic 4: Drawing Evaluative Conclusions from Mixed Data
Topic 5: Building Learning Strategies into MEAL Systems
Topic 6: Translating Conclusions into Recommendations and Lessons
Reflection & Review: From data to insights – evaluating learning pathways

Day 5: Implementation, Use, and Sustainability

Topic 1: MEAL Implementation Planning and Workplan Development
Topic 2: Building Staff Capacity and Organizational Readiness
Topic 3: Establishing Feedback Loops and Accountability Structures
Topic 4: Developing the Reporting and Dissemination Strategy
Topic 5: Monitoring and Reviewing the MEAL Framework Continuously
Topic 6: Aligning MEAL with Decision-Making and Adaptive Management
Reflection & Review: Ensuring the MEAL system evolves, scales, and serves long-term goals

FAQ:

What specific qualifications or prerequisites are needed for participants before enrolling in the course?

No formal qualifications are required. However, familiarity with project planning or evaluation concepts is beneficial.

How long is each day's session, and is there a total number of hours required for the entire course?

Each day's session is generally structured to last around 4-5 hours, with breaks and interactive activities included. The total course duration spans five days, approximately 20-25 hours of instruction.

How do Logic Models differ from Theories of Change?

While both methods are used to map program strategy, a Theory of Change outlines the causal pathway from inputs to impact, often including assumptions. A Logic Model provides a more structured visual representation with indicators and activities, often used in MEAL frameworks.

How This Course is Different from Other MEAL Courses:

Unlike many MEAL training programs that are either overly theoretical or method-heavy, "Designing Effective MEAL Frameworks" strikes the perfect balance. This course uniquely integrates systems thinking with practical methods like logframes, stakeholder analysis, ToC models, and evaluation matrices. It focuses not only on M&E, but also equally on accountability and learning, which are often underrepresented. With a strong emphasis on participatory design, adaptive use of data, and organizational learning, participants leave with actionable frameworks they can apply immediately. Real-world case studies, facilitated peer learning, and practical templates make this course stand out for professionals who seek to design MEAL systems that are strategic, inclusive, and responsive to dynamic environments.

credits: 5 credit per day

Course Mode: full-time

Provider: Agile Leaders Training Center