Evaluating Public Sector Programmes – Methods & Approaches

Course Overview

This course empowers public sector evaluators to assess project and policy impact using practical, theory-based, and mixed-method evaluation approaches. It aligns with OECD DAC Evaluation Criteria, 3ie, and UNDP National Evaluation Capacities Guidelines.

Delegates will develop tools for designing, commissioning, and using evaluations in real-world development and infrastructure contexts.

Key Course Objectives

✅ Apply evaluation models to public programmes
✅ Design effective Terms of Reference (ToR) and evaluation frameworks
✅ Use qualitative and quantitative evaluation methods
✅ Align with donor requirements and global evaluation principles
✅ Promote use of findings in decision-making

Who Should Attend

• Programme evaluators and impact assessment teams
• Ministries commissioning large-scale evaluations
• National statistics or research bodies
• PIUs preparing for mid-term or end-term reviews

Detailed Course Content (2 Weeks)

Week 1: Evaluation Planning & Design
Day 1: Purpose & Types of Evaluation
Day 2: OECD DAC Criteria and Methodological Options
Day 3: Developing Evaluation ToRs and Methodology
Day 4: Mixed Methods – Surveys, FGDs, Outcome Harvesting
Day 5: Sampling, Ethics & Costing

Week 2: Analysis, Learning & Use
Day 6: Analysing Findings and Reporting Results
Day 7: Evaluation for Policy Learning and Reform
Day 8: UK Site Visit – Evaluation Consultancy, Think Tank, or Department
Day 9: Dissemination Strategies and Political Economy
Day 10: Final Evaluation Design Simulation