Week 2: Theory of Change (Part 1)

A set of concepts and principles that explain a particular phenomenon.

A symbolic representation of an actual thing.

An abstract idea that cannot be directly observed.

The relationships between concepts and constructs that explain or predict outcomes.

The process of using theory to understand and improve societal conditions.

Using research and evidence to design interventions that are likely to be effective.

The process of using theory to identify problems and understand the outcomes of social programmes.

Using theory to plan interventions that are based on research and evidence.

A structured method to assess the internal and external factors influencing a project or program.

A tool used to analyze the broader context of a project or program.

The process of gathering and analyzing information to understand the context of a project.

A technique used to identify the root causes of a problem by repeatedly asking "Why?"

The internal factors that contribute to a project's success.

The internal factors that can hinder a project's success.

The external factors that can benefit a project.

The external factors that could negatively impact a project.

Collecting and analyzing data to check if a program is working as planned.

Looking at the results of a program and figuring out what's working or not.

Figuring out how to make a program better based on the results.

Understanding the steps a program takes to achieve its goals.

Updating the Theory of Change based on new information.

Does the Theory of Change accurately reflect the organization's strategy?

Does the Theory of Change clearly define the program's target audience and goals?

Testing a Theory of Change involves ongoing observation, analysis, and refinement to ensure a program's effectiveness.

A theory of change (ToC) must clearly explain how the institution's strategy will achieve its desired outcomes.

The activities and outputs outlined in the ToC should directly contribute to the ultimate goals and impact.

A ToC should be realistic, accounting for the institution's resources and capabilities.

A ToC should be believable to both internal and external stakeholders.

The ToC should be structured so that its components can be tested using measurable data and research methods.

The assumptions outlined in the theory of change should be validated through real-world application and analysis of results.

A ToC is a valuable tool for planning and evaluating programs and interventions, ensuring their effectiveness.

A structured explanation of how and why a program is expected to work. It outlines the connection between inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impacts.

A visual representation of a program's theory, showing the causal links between inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impacts.

A comprehensive framework that outlines the program's overall change process, including the underlying assumptions, key actors, and desired outcomes.

Resources invested in a program, such as funding, staff, materials, and time.

Actions taken to implement the program, including training, workshops, community engagement, or service delivery.

The direct, tangible results of a program's activities, such as the number of participants trained, reports produced, or services delivered.

The specific, measurable changes in individuals or communities that result from the program's activities and outputs.

The long-term, societal-level effects of the program's outcomes, such as reduced poverty, increased literacy, or improved health.

Political factors refer to government policies, regulations, and stability that can affect a project's implementation or funding.

Economic factors encompass financial conditions like inflation, interest rates, and economic growth that can influence a project's budget and resources.

Social factors include cultural trends, demographics, and public opinion that can shape the project's relevance and acceptance.

Technological factors refer to technological advancements and innovations that can affect a project's implementation, accessibility, or efficiency.

Legal factors include laws, regulations, and legal frameworks that govern project activities and can impact compliance and potential risks.

Environmental factors refer to ecological considerations, climate change, and environmental regulations that can influence project sustainability and impact.

The theory of change (ToC) is a strategic framework that outlines the desired outcomes of a project and the logical steps needed to achieve those outcomes.