Embed Size (px)
Citation preview
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change: Bridging Ideas, Actions, and Results
Michael Sikes, [email protected]
(805) 448-7713
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Definition: Theory of Change (ToC) is a kind of roadmap of a program. Its key elements are that it:– Bridges ideas to actions to results, based on logical,
research-based connections.– Uses research. It begins with a review and analysis
of what has already been tried and learned in regard to a potential program.
– Is participatory. The program stakeholders drive the process forward.
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
1 Long-Term Outcomes
2 Intermediate Outcomes
3 Short-Term Outcomes
4 Program Activities and Resources
A Theory of Change Uses “Backward Design”
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Who uses ToC?
• Nonprofit or community organizations • Schools or school districts• Government agencies• Informal or ad hoc community groups• Foundations and funders• Health care organizations• Businesses or corporate teams
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Advantages of ToC
Engage the positive energies of people
Ensure good evaluation
Move toward results
Improve people’s lives
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Advantages of ToC
Engage the positive energies of people
Ensure good evaluation
Move toward solutions
Improve people’s lives
People become engaged in a program when they understand how it is constructed, how its parts fit together, and how it is supposed to achieve its aims.
(c) 2007 Michael E. Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Advantages of ToC
Engage the positive energies of people
Ensure good evaluation
Move toward results
Improve people’s lives
A solid Theory of Change leads to the design and implementation of an effective evaluation.
(c) 2007 Michael E. Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Advantages of ToC
Engage the positive energies of people
Ensure good evaluation
Move toward results
Improve people’s lives
A Theory of Change helps identify the most important outcomes that a program can achieve.
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Advantages of ToC
Engage the positive energies of people
Ensure good evaluation
Move toward results
Improve people’s lives
A program based on solid Theory of Change can bring about advancement and improvement in the lives of people.
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
The Consultant’s Role
• Conducts initial research on practices and models• Reports findings to ensure usability• Counsels on alignment of program components• Helps build in useful indicators
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Beginning a ToC Process
• Identify an idea for a program or project.• Define the group or organization that will work
together.• Engage a consultant with ToC experience.• Read and discuss resulting research findings.• Begin the design process.
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
Continuing a ToC Process
• Use a standard template to chart outcomes.• Constantly check for alignment.• Build in indicators to drive evaluation.• Disseminate results to stakeholders.• Use the Theory of Change to guide program
planning, implementation, and evaluation.
(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D.
Theory of Change
For More Information
Contact Michael Sikes, [email protected](805) 448-7713
Or go to:http://mikesikesresearch.weebly.com/theory-of-change.html
