For over 50 years, evaluators have used theories of change to articulate the causal logic underpinning how an intervention is intended to bring about a desired change. From its origins in programme evaluation, the approach has been adopted more widely for purposes from program design to program management. As theories of change continue to be used for multiple purposes, it is an opportune moment for the evaluation community—where the approach originated—to provide their perspective on the strengths and limitations of the approach and its future directions. To provide these perspectives, we asked nearly 30 of the world’s leading evaluators and programme theorists to provide a short essay on the past, present, and future of theories of change. This book presents their insights organized into five main themes: the use of theories of change in broader public policy contexts; using theories of change to establish causality; developing theories of change reflective of multiple stakeholder perspectives; using theories of change to understand wider societal change processes; and applying theories of change approaches for multiple purposes. By sharing these diverse perspectives, the book aims to both provide evaluators and emerging programme theorists with critical perspectives to inform future practice.

Twenty six essays on Theory of Change, written from various perspectives by experts from the evaluation field.

 Theories of Change in Reality: Strengths, Limitations and Future Directions

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Theory of Change slides - no Q & A

More than a logic model, a Theory of Change is an organization’s “theory”, or story, of how it will make change in the world. A theory explains the group’s beliefs about how change will unfold. It is usually represented visually as an &#8220;outcomes chain&#8221; and is supported by a narrative &#8211; including underlying assumptions and indicators.
In this webinar presentation on Theory of Change on the what, why and hows of theory of change, the Environmental Leadership Programme (ELP) shares more value experience on the subject matter.
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A webinar presentation on Theory of Change on the what, why and hows. This event was organised by The Environmental Leadership Programme (ELP) as a way to share more value experience on the subject matter.

Theory of Change: What is it? Why does it matter? How do I develop one?

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A short guide on ToC development from Nesta&#8217;s Centre for Social Action Innovation Fund (CSAIF).

A short guide on ToC development from Nesta's Centre for Social Action Innovation Fund (CSAIF).