| Session Title: Model Forms, Program Theory, And Unexpected Behavior: What Are the Implications For Program Implementation and Evaluation? |
| Think Tank Session 503 to be held in Lone Star B on Friday, Nov 12, 9:15 AM to 10:45 AM |
| Sponsored by the Systems in Evaluation TIG |
| Presenter(s): |
| Jonathan Morell, Vector Research Center, jonny.morell@newvectors.net |
| Discussant(s): |
| Jonathan Morell, Vector Research Center, jonny.morell@newvectors.net |
| Sanjeev Sridharan, University of Toronto, sridharans@smh.toronto.on.ca |
| Abstract: Visual forms of logic models (e.g. flowchart, system, input/output) constrain and influence both beliefs about program theory, and choices about methodologies and measures. All this has a powerful influence on expectations about what a program will do and what evaluation can reveal, and thus, for the surprises and unexpected program behaviors that lie in wait for evaluators. This think tank will explore these relationships. Participants will be presented with different logic model forms for the same program, accompanied by a discussion of the presenters’ beliefs about the implications of each form for theory, methodology, and measurement. Our focus will be on what kinds of representations are good enough to assist program implementation and evaluation, and the relative advantages of those different forms. Literature from the field of knowledge translation will inform the discussion. Breakouts will probe, critique and modify the presenters’ assertions. Two scenarios will be presented and discussed. |