Unpacking black boxes: Mechanisms and theory building in evaluation.

The best way to learn the uses and limitations of logic models and logframes is to apply these to actual or proposed programs. Some models are based on elaborate or complex formulations of change that are based on social science theory. Other observers also argue that, for the most part, logic models are based simply on programs that are manifestations of what stakeholders, policy makers, and program managers think will work.

By now, you have selected a program for your Final Project, the Evaluation Research Design. You will use your Assignments throughout the course to build upon your Final Project. In this first Assignment for your Final Project, you will construct a logical model or logframe of the program you selected.

ASSIGNMENT:

Submit by Day 7 a logical model or logframe for the program you selected. This will present somewhat of a challenge for programs that do not yet exist, but a description of your proposed program and its objectives will be sufficient. Pay specific attention to components, objectives, outputs and outcomes, and the causal linkages within the model. Also pay specific attention to stakeholders and program objectives. Develop this model as fully as you can. Note that this model, once articulated, will help you formulate your evaluation research questions and determine the data that will be needed later in the evaluation design process.

Resources:

McDavid, J. C., Huse, I., & Hawthorn, L. R. L. (2019). Program evaluation and performance measurement: An introduction to practice (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
Chapter 2, “Understanding and Applying Program Logic Models” (pp. 50-92)

BetterEvaluation. (2014c). Logframe. Retrieved from http://betterevaluation.org/evaluation-options/logframe

Koerner, B. I. (2010). Secret of AA: After 75 years, we don’t know how it works. Retrieved from http://www.wired.com/2010/06/ff_alcoholics_anonymous/all/

UNICEF. (2002). From results-based planning tools to integrated M&E plan. Retrieved from http://www.ceecis.org/remf/Service3/unicef_eng/module2/part2.html

Optional Resource

Astbury, B., & Leeuw, F. L. (2010). Unpacking black boxes: Mechanisms and theory building in evaluation. American Journal of Evaluation, 31(3), 363–381.