Evaluation of AID Grant AID/ta-G-1444 to PASITAM

Special evaluation covers the period 1977-11/80 and is based on document review, site visits, and interviews with PASITAM staff. Although the materials produced by PASITAM have differed somewhat from original plans, overall outputs have been responsive to grant objectives. Twelve design notes, three design studies, two textbooks, and nine newsletters have been produced by PASITAM; four additional notes were to have been published by 2/81. During FY 80, PASITAM's Documentation and Analysis Center processed 895 materials and information requests, primarily from AID/W. To conduct its informational services, PASITAM has developed a small, selected in-house collection of materials, and monitors publications/reports from some 150 governmental and 400 non-governmental organizations. In addition, PASITAM has produced eight training modules (two others are in progress) on a series of development-related topics. Analytical skills workshops have been conducted to allow PASITAM's staff to establish contacts with A.I.D. field personnel and receive feedback to improve its dissemination efforts. Recommendations are to: extend support for the project after the current grant expires in 2/81; authorize PASITAM to expand its production of multi-media training modules if additional funds are available; and encourage PASITAM to seek new ways to strengthen its contacts with LDC organizations.