Annex I.
Baseline data a set of conditions existing at the outset of a programme or project. Results can be measured or assessed against such data. In participatory development, it is important that stakeholders participate in identifying the key sources of information and the indicators required for measuring performance.
Beneficiary assessment an approach to information-gathering that places the emphasis on the perceptions of the principal actors. Qualitative research methods are stressed, including direct and unobtrusive observation methods and interviewing, including semi-structured and open-conversation interviews.
Case-study analysis a learning tool used in training or group settings to stimulate the processes of dialogue, discussion and analysis. Typically based on real-life incidents, case studies illustrate the range of possible enabling and inhibiting factors in a given development activity. Case-study group discussions can increase understanding of broader issues involved in programme and project development.
Donor the funding organization, whose role in participatory evaluation is to mobilize resources which can increase beneficiary involvement in the evaluation and ensure more relevant feedback for the purposes of long-term planning. Donors in participatory evaluation exercises listen more and dictate less.
Emergent knowledge data that emerge informally as part of an evaluation encounter and not as a response to pre-designed evaluation questions. Identifying emergent knowledge leads to inductive analysis, which is critical in participatory evaluation. According to Michael Quinn Patton, an evaluation specialist, inductive analysis means that the patterns, themes, and categories of analysis emerge out of the data rather than being imposed prior to data collection and analysis.
Evaluator in participatory evaluations, the stakeholders or programme end-users and/or beneficiaries, who are involved in all stages of the evaluation process, from defining the terms of reference and collecting and analysing data to making recommendations and taking corrective action or making improvements.
Facilitator an outside expert in participatory evaluation methods, who has the capacity to listen; help the group to ask key questions; guide and facilitate discussions; encourage trust; delegate tasks and responsibilities; create an environment of sharing and reflection; and plan actions to help bring together the viewpoints of the various stakeholders.
Focus group small discussion group that concentrates on a specific topic. A group facilitator assists in focusing the discussion on strategies for defining solutions to particular problems. Used in evaluation as a means of starting a discussion, identifying needs and clarifying key points.
Participatory evaluation the collective examination and assessment of a programme or project by the stakeholders and beneficiaries. Participatory evaluations are reflective, action-oriented and seek to build capacity.
Qualitative methods methods that minimize the use of numerical analysis, such as interviews, observation, testimonials and various PRA methods to elicit information from stakeholders. Information obtained in this way can help to illuminate data and numbers.
Random sampling a selection made without method or conscious choice.
Secondary sources sources such as periodic progress reports, annual reports, memos, sectoral studies and baseline data. They serve as background and foundation material and resources for an evaluation.
Stakeholder an actor that has a vested interest in a given project, activity, or issue. Stakeholders may include groups affected by development actions, such as the poor, women, workers, farmers or the community at large, as well as other actors that can affect the outcome of a project, i.e., government officials, institutions, project personnel or the local government. In
participatory evaluations, stakeholders assume an increased role in the evaluation process as question-makers, evaluation planners, data gatherers and problem solvers.
Stratified sampling a selection that ensures representation of a cross-section of a community according to such characteristics as age, gender, social class or race.
Triangulation a process of cross-checking and cross-validating by talking with and referring to various sources.