UNIVERSITY OF GHANA SHORT COURSES
The Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research (ISSER) of the University of Ghana, Legon is organizing four short courses for policy makers, analysts, program implementers, consultants, Central Government, Ministries, District Assemblies, NGOs, social services groups, researchers and students, etc.
The courses aim to equip participants with useable operational skills, methods and techniques that are relevant to solving development problems in Ghana.
The courses aim to equip participants with useable operational skills, methods and techniques
that are relevant to solving development problems in Ghana.
If you are in doubt about the suitability of any of the course for your needs, please contact the
Course Coordinator through the ISSER office.
A. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND REPORT WRITING
Course Description
The course provides an overview of the entire research process, from proposal development to
writing of the research report. It includes the most current data collection and analysis techniques
in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies.
The course carefully balances an understanding of basic principles of research with practical
‘how-to’ skills, using a combination of lectures and in-class exercises. The course instructors are
from ISSER and relevant departments in the University of Ghana with years of teaching and
research experience.
Course Content
- Proposal Writing
- Research Design
• Qualitative and Quantitative Methodology
• Sampling Procedures
• Design of Questionnaires and Interview Guides
Research Report Writing
The course is ideal for those whose work demands practical research skills, or who want to gain
a firmer understanding of research. This would include persons working in the corporate world, in
the public sector, and in research consultancies.
- Duration Mon, 30 May – Fri, 10 June 2016 (2 weeks)
- Course Fee GH¢1,700.00 per participant
- (includes course materials, lunch, and snacks)
B. DATA MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS
Course Description
This is an intensive course on basic principles and methods of data processing (data entry, cleaning
and verification) and statistical data analysis applicable in various fields of study. The emphasis
will be on the choice of method for a particular data set and interpretation of results. There will
be hands-on training.
Course Content
Data Management
• Building Data Management Strategy
• Using SPSS in Data Management and Analysis
• Using EP INFO in Data Entry, Management, and Analysis
Analysis
• Basic Statistical tools for data analysis
• Estimation and Hypothesis testing
• Analysis of Relationships
• Analysis of time series
• Introduction to Advanced Statistical Techniques
• Basic Computing Training
Practical Exercises in Data Management and Analysis. Participants will undertake a trip to
an institution to collect data and apply the techniques learned in sections A and B.
The course will be useful to individuals interested in learning both the theoretical basis and the
practical techniques for managing research projects.
Duration Mon, 13 June – Fri, 24 June 2021 (2 weeks)
Course Fee GH¢2,000.00 per participant
(includes course materials, lunch, and snacks)
DEADLINE for application: Mon, 6 June 2021
C. PROJECT CYCLE MANAGEMENT
Course Description
This is a unique course that provides practical knowledge and skills on how to effectively manage
projects from their inception through implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The course is
taught by senior academics together with experienced project planners and monitoring and
evaluation specialists. It also combines theory with computer-based software on project cycle
management. This program will be extremely useful for professionals wishing to consolidate
their knowledge of project planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
Course Content
Project Planning and Appraisal
• Project planning perspectives/concepts
• Project identification
• Project cycle components
• Managing the project cycle sequence
• Project framework
• Logical framework
• SWOT analysis
• Critical incidents analysis
• Sustainability of projects
• Participatory approaches to projects and community management
• Project action plan
• Project appraisal
• Principles of project appraisal
• Techniques and criteria
• Financial and economic analysis of projects
• Analysis of the social, distributive environmental impacts of projects
Dynamic Monitoring and Evaluation of Projects
• Key distinctions between monitoring and evaluation
• Participatory monitoring and participatory evaluation
• Policy analysis matrix for project monitoring and evaluation
• Causal pathway of analysis for project monitoring
• Evaluation as a means of analyzing project, policy, and process
• Feedback and completion of the project
• Introduction to Software for Project Cycle Management
Computer-based Practical Exercises in Project Cycle Management
Participants will undertake a trip to a project site, apply the techniques
learned in sections 1 and 2, and prepare a project report using computer
software in 2 above. Also, the course is interactive and practical exercises
will be done after completing key topics.
The course will be relevant to project officers, development consultants, budgets and
planning officers of Ministries, Departments, Agencies, District Assemblies, NGOs,
social services groups, researchers, students, private entrepreneurs, etc.
Duration Mon, 27 June – Fri, 8 July 2021 (2 weeks)
Course Fee GH¢1,600.00 per participant
(includes course materials, lunch, and snacks)
DEADLINE for application: Mon, 20 June 2021
D. SURVEY RESEARCH METHODS
Course Description
This course is a thorough introduction to the methods and best practices used in
collecting data about populations using a sample of individuals. From answering the
fundamental question, “what is a survey?” to a review of the analysis and reporting of
survey data, we cover all stages of the survey process. By using clear instructions on
“what to do” supported by theoretical justifications, participants will gain confidence
in not only producing survey results but also critically evaluating the results of
surveys they may use to make decisions. The focus will be on conducting Household
Surveys in Ghana.
Course Content
• Survey design and implementation
• Sample design
• Reducing errors (sampling and non-sampling
• Survey costs and budgeting
Participants
This intensive course is ideal for anyone who plans to collect survey data, commission
survey projects, or evaluate the results of survey research in their work. While there
are no formal background prerequisites for the course, the one-week format of
the program is quite intensive. With presentations, in-class discussions, hands-on
planning projects, and take-home assignments, participants should plan on being
fully engaged for the entire week
Duration: Mon, 11 July – Fri, 15 July 2021
Course fee: GH¢1,500 per participant (includes course materials, lunch, and snacks)
DEADLINE for application: Mon, 4 July 2021
The full course fee must be paid a week before the start of the course.
An application fee of GH¢30
