Monitoring and Evaluation of Practice and Methods in Applied Social Research

Monitoring and Evaluation of Practice and Methods in Applied Social Research is a comprehensive guide delving into the core concepts, tools, methods, and approaches of monitoring and evaluation (M&E). This book reveals the roots of M&E, illustrating its evolution from academia into a burgeoning field of science across various contexts. The challenge practitioners face lies in the inconsistent terminology used for identical concepts among humanitarian organizations, hindering the growth of M&E through shared learning. Embracing an abductive approach, this book seeks to establish M&E as distinct fields within social research. In doing so, it bridges the philosophical gap between novice and expert social researchers and provides a consolidated resource based on real-world experiences. Written by an expert with over a decade of hands-on experience in applied social research, this book serves as an invaluable tool, offering insights into the diverse landscape of M&E, enabling students and practitioners to navigate various contexts with ease. Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), United Nations (UN) bodies, and organizations involved in M&E will also find this book instrumental, creating a bridge of standardized concepts, nomenclature, and approaches.

Sada H. Shah has a Ph.D. in sociology and specializes in mixed methods research. He has been working in the field of M&E since 2009 and has been working in this field in different countries with academia, UN bodies, and international nongovernment organizations (INGOs).

Part 1. Fundamental Concepts of M&E 1. Monitoring 2. Evaluation 3. Indicators 4. Sampling; Part 2. Fundamental M&E Studies 5. Baseline, Midterm, and End-Line Studies 6. KAP and KPC Studies 7. Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) 8. Action Research 9. SWOT and PESTEL Analyses 10. Appreciative Inquiry 11. Case Study, Success Story, and Human-Interest Story 12. Impact Assessment 13. Study Design; Part 3. Fundamental M&E Tools 14. LFA and Result Framework 15. Project M&E Plan 16. M&E Strategy 17. Theory of Change 18. Preferred Methods & Tools for Data Collection Under M&E Studies 19. Accountability 20. Learning 21. Quality