Monitoring and Evaluating International Development Project

Research Essay:

Select ONE of the following questions and write an essay of 3000 words (this word count does not include the reference list; it is acceptable to be within +/- 10% of the word count):

1. Select an evaluation method/theory and apply it to a case study of your choice. The case study must not be more than ten years old.

2. Choose two different approaches to monitoring and evaluation of development projects and critically assess their strengths and weaknesses by comparing and contrasting them. Use examples to illustrate and support your arguments. (Consider, for example, comparing participatory approach with feminist evaluation principles).

3.Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Theory of Change over the Log Frame based on literature.

4.Discuss in relation to literature, whether an aid agency’s organisational characteristics facilitate or hinder its evaluation practices.

Assessment criteria:

Demonstrated critical understanding of the topic

Extent and relevance of research

Original and stimulating critical analysis

Coherence of argument and structure

Quality of written expression

Consistent and correct use of scholarly apparatus (references, notes, etc.)

Writing within the word limit