The Collection, Analysis, and Use of Monitoring and Evaluation Data

Abstract

This volume focuses on the topics in data collection, analysis, and use that were raised in its companion book, Project Monitoring and Evaluation in Agriculture. It summarizes these topics in the context set by the companion volume, which documented the importance of monitoring and recommended that ambitious evaluations be done only selectively. The book further explains the data collection and analysis techniques referred to in the companion volume. It is selective; it does not provide comprehensive coverage of all methods. Furthermore, for those methods it does cover, the book advocates simplicity and economy. It emphasizes qualitative interviewing methods because most monitoring and evaluation efforts will need to use them for limited, non-random coverage of respondents. Examples of sample theory and sample selection, conversely, are mainly in terms of rates of adoption and similar indicators. In a similar vein, the book advocates greater reliance on farmer estimates when discussing crop production and yield, because the issue of concern in this context is project beneficiary responses rather than aggregate national or regional estimates. The book is meant to be consulted as a particular issue arises rather than read straight through. The subjects covered are qualitative data collection methods; structured surveys and sampling and crop measurement problems; preliminary, exploratory data analysis; formal analysis; and data presentation.

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