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Program theory-driven evaluation science in a youth development context

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  • Deane, Kelsey L.
  • Harré, Niki

Abstract

Program theory-driven evaluation science (PTDES) provides a useful framework for uncovering the mechanisms responsible for positive change resulting from participation in youth development (YD) programs. Yet it is difficult to find examples of PTDES that capture the complexity of such experiences. This article offers a much-needed example of PTDES applied to Project K, a youth development program with adventure, service-learning and mentoring components. Findings from eight program staff focus groups, 351 youth participants’ comments, four key program documents, and results from six previous Project K research projects were integrated to produce a theory of change for the program. A direct logic analysis was then conducted to assess the plausibility of the proposed theory against relevant research literature. This demonstrated that Project K incorporates many of the best practice principles discussed in the literature that covers the three components of the program. The contributions of this theory-building process to organizational learning and development are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Deane, Kelsey L. & Harré, Niki, 2014. "Program theory-driven evaluation science in a youth development context," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 45(C), pages 61-70.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:epplan:v:45:y:2014:i:c:p:61-70
    DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2014.03.009
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Brousselle, Astrid & Champagne, François, 2011. "Program theory evaluation: Logic analysis," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 34(1), pages 69-78, February.
    2. Gugiu, P. Cristian & Rodriguez-Campos, Liliana, 2007. "Semi-structured interview protocol for constructing logic models," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 30(4), pages 339-350, November.
    3. Wilson, Sandra Jo & Lipsey, Mark W., 2000. "Wilderness challenge programs for delinquent youth: a meta-analysis of outcome evaluations," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 23(1), pages 1-12, February.
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    Cited by:

    1. Harman, Elena & Azzam, Tarek, 2018. "Towards program theory validation: Crowdsourcing the qualitative analysis of participant experiences," Evaluation and Program Planning, Elsevier, vol. 66(C), pages 183-194.
    2. Diana Paricio & Maria F. Rodrigo & Paz Viguer & Marina Herrera, 2020. "Positive Adolescent Development: Effects of a Psychosocial Intervention Program in a Rural Setting," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(18), pages 1-17, September.

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