Application of Logic Modeling Processes to Explore Theory of Change from Diverse Cultural Perspectives

Ricardo Millett, Sharon Dodson, & Cynthia PhillipsAmerican Evaluation AssociationNovember 4, 2000

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Whose Logic Model …and for Whom?

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Logic Models Are Subjective

“Since the measuring device has been constructed by the observer..we have to remember that what we observe is not nature itself but nature exposed to our method of questioning” Heisenberg“We see things not as they are, but as we are….” Anais Nin

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Common Issues Encountered

“too linear…”“too limited…” “…constraining”“doesn’t capture complexity…”“…nuances are lost”

“too graphic…”“needs more specific details…”“…connections are not clear enough…”“not evaluable…”

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Reflection Activity 1

What are some of the distinguishing characteristics of each model?Strengths, limitations?Utility?

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Model1

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Model2

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Model3

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Model4

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Ways of Showing—Logic Models

Causal(Attribution)

Non-Causal(Contribution)

Linear (Synchrony)

MODEL 1theory testing

MODEL 2idea mapping

Non-linear (Asynchrony)

MODEL 3theory testing

MODEL 4idea

mapping

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Epistemic Style (Draze, 2000)Metaphor

icEclectic Rational

Theory of Action

Change Agent

Facilitator Educator

Attitude Toward Data

Intuitive,sense making,ambiguous

Pattern depends on situation and context

Logical, precise, analytic

Evaluation Focus

Process Process and outcomes

Outcomes

Theory and Practice

Theory generating

Theory mapping

Theory testing

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Ways of Knowing--Epistemology

Causal(Attribution)

Non-Causal(Contribution)

Linear (Synchrony)

MODEL 1 MODEL 2

Non-linear (Asynchrony)

MODEL 3 MODEL 4

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Conclusion--Locus for Growth

If the audiences of evaluation were more consistently understood and the range of assumptions respected would interpretation and use of logic models change?The key is to be conscious of our theories in use and be aware of how they are influencing our observations of the world.