Research, monitoring and evaluation of HIV/Aids programmes
PgDip in HIV/Aids Management – Module 6
Research is part and parcel of academic work and in Module 6, different methodologies are explained, whereafter students find out how to monitor and evaluate HIV/Aids programmes:
Qualitative research methodology:
In this unit, students develop an understanding of scientific research and will be able to explain the concept of qualitative research and different approaches to it. They develop an understanding of the critical, qualitative paradigm and its philosophical grounding and will be able to formulate a problem statement and research question. Things also get practical when they create an appropriate qualitative research methodology and design.
Quantitative research methodology:
Students learn to understand scientific research in a quantitative research context. This research approach is explored, including identifying a contextual researchable topic and formulating a problem statement or research question. Students then create an appropriate research design and classify and compare various sampling methods and data collection methods. They will also be able to demonstrate an understanding of measurement and analysis fundamentals as well as classify and compare methods and processes of quantitative analysis.
Programme monitoring and evaluation:
In this unit, students are introduced to programme monitoring and evaluation, including an overview of the key facets and steps of programme evaluation. They become familiar with relevant terminology and learn to engage critically with various evaluation approaches. They learn the differences between a theory of change and a basic programme logic model. Overall, they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to develop robust project monitoring indicators, and to design a monitoring and evaluation plan.