(c) 2014 Michael Sikes, Ph.D. Theory of Change: Bridging Ideas, Actions, and Results Michael Sikes, Ph.D. (805)

(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 1Long-Term Outcomes 2Intermediate Outcomes 3Short-Term Outcomes 4Program 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, Ph.D. (805) Or go to: change.htmlhttp://mikesikesresearch.weebly.com/theory-of- change.html