In the contemporary context the concept of participatory monitoring and evaluation(PME) has become an important means to enhance effectiveness and relevance of programmes,organisations and institutions in their pursuit of inclusive development , good governance and social change.

The process of critical reflection and analysis is an integral component of one's existence. For those involved in the enterprise of development and social change the process of monitoring and evaluation (M&E)however has become more sytematised. In recent years concerns regarding effective management and result orientation of the diverse range of programmes and projects is on the rise..It is being recognised that active participation of the primary stakeholder i.e. the community or the beneficiaries of the project, in the process of monitoring and evaluation can address some of these concerns effectively. The process of PME also is important for organisational strengthening and institutional learning of diverse range of organisations.PME approaches have also entered the arena of governance, assisting in ensuring accountability of the institutions of State and Market to the citizens.

PME thus is fast becoming an important dimensions of international development debate and practice. There are however not many development courses, internationally, which focus on the concept of participatory monitoring and evaluation from an educational and learning point of view.The course which do exist are expensive thus out of reach of many practitioners.Many practitioners also lack adequate time to attend face to face development courses on monitoring and evaluation. This Course is being launched by PRIA and University of Victoria in a distance education mode , to address the above learning needs.

This three month course is designed for practitioners ,adult educators , managers( staff of international and national voluntary development organisations, bi-lateral and multi-lateral development agencies , government departments),researchers and policy makers from countries of North and South , who are currently engaged in or interested to learn about participatory monitoring and evaluation.

It will provide in-service career opportunity for practitioners. The participants can be mid career professionals or young professionals, with some practical experience of being engaged in the process of social change . The minimum required qualification is Bachelor degree in any subject. The learners should have an easy access to computer and Internet facilities otherwise they might miss out on significant portions of the course.

This innovative course , one of its kind in a distance education mode, will consider a range of conceptual and practical issues faced by practitioners, adult educators,researchers,resource providers and policy makers in managing organisations and programmes in a participatory manner.The focus will be on participatory monitoring and evaluation.It will facilitate critical analysis of different debates and perspectives on the theme.

"To strengthen understanding on concepts and approaches to participatory monitoring and evaluation for ensuring inclusive development and effective governance".