In the era of data-driven development, the ability to visualize and analyze spatial data is a game-changer for Monitoring and Evaluation professionals. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) offer powerful tools to track project progress, target interventions geographically, and assess impact over time and space.
GIS is a computer system that assembles, stores, manipulates and displays geographically referenced information, i.e. data identified according to their locations. The incorporation of GIS in monitoring and Evaluation improves the effectiveness and communications of results to management, funding partners, and beneficiaries by making it possible to link, or integrate information that is difficult to associate through any other means.
This training course on GIS for Monitoring and Evaluation is designed to empower development practitioners, M&E officers, researchers, and program managers with practical skills in spatial data handling, mapping, and analysis. Participants will learn how to integrate GIS into the M&E cycle, visualize program data geographically, and support strategic decision-making through geospatial insights.
This training will therefore present a practical guide for using a geographic information system (GIS) integrated with Monitoring and Evaluation. By using the GIS to link data from multiple programs the trainees will understand the individual programs better as well as understand the relationships between the programs.
Hands-on sessions will use open-source and accessible tools like QGIS, with exposure to platforms such as Google Earth Engine, ArcGIS Online, and mobile data collection tools.
Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Participation.
OBJECTIVES
By the end of this course the participants will be able to:
- Understand the fundamentals of GIS and its application in M&E.
- Collect, manage, and analyze spatial data relevant to program monitoring.
- Integrate GIS into project design, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
- Develop thematic maps for visualizing indicators and results.
- Use GIS tools to track performance geographically and inform decision-making.
- Apply GIS in real-world development contexts including health, agriculture, WASH, and humanitarian programs.
DURATION
This course will take 5 days
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
The course is intended for government representatives, project teams, NGOs, multi and bilateral development organizations, consultancies, etc., who work as M&E specialists, project managers, researchers and technical specialists.
COURSE OUTLINE
Module 1: Introduction to GIS and Spatial Thinking in M&E
- Overview of GIS concepts and terminology
- Why GIS matters in Monitoring & Evaluation
- Types of spatial data: Raster vs. Vector
- Introduction to QGIS and basic interface tour
- Case studies: Use of GIS in M&E across sectors
Module 2: Spatial Data Collection and Management
- Data sources: GPS, mobile surveys, shapefiles, satellite imagery
- Introduction to mobile data collection tools (KoboToolbox, ODK)
- Importing and managing datasets in QGIS
- Geocoding and managing attribute data
- Cleaning and preparing spatial datasets for analysis
Module 3: Mapping Project Indicators and Thematic Layers
- Creating layers for M&E indicators
- Thematic mapping: Health access, school coverage, etc.
- Symbolizing and labeling data
- Creating buffer zones, service areas, and coverage maps
- Using satellite imagery for environmental monitoring
Module 4: Spatial Analysis for M&E
- Performing spatial joins and queries
- Overlay analysis and hotspot detection
- Time-series analysis using remote sensing
- Mapping change and project impact
- Basic dashboard creation and map-based reporting
Module 5: GIS Integration in M&E Frameworks
- Integrating GIS into Results-Based M&E Systems
- Mapping the project lifecycle using GIS tools
- Developing M&E spatial indicators
- Final project: Design a GIS-integrated M&E plan
- Presentations, feedback, and certification
GENERAL NOTES
- The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.
- The participants should be reasonably proficient in English as all facilitation and course materials will be offered in English.
- Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a certificate.
- The training will be held at Kincaid Training Centre. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments and lunch.
- All participants will additionally cater for their, travel expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.
- Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training coordinator at Email: training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org or Tel: +254 724592901
- This training can also be customized to suit the needs of your institution upon request. You can have it delivered in our Kincaid Training Centre or at a convenient location.
For further inquiries, please contact us on Tel: +254 724592901 or send mail to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org
Payments are due upon registration. Payment should be sent to our Bank account before commencement of training and proof of payment sent to training@kincaiddevelopmentcenter.org.