• DOI:10.3138/cjpe.69535
• Corpus ID: 228082380

Toward learning from change pathways: reviewing theory of change and its discontents

@article{Lam2020TowardLF,
  title={Toward learning from change pathways: reviewing theory of change and its discontents},
  author={Steven Lam},
  journal={The Canadian Journal of Program Evaluation},
  year={2020},
  volume={35}
}

• Steven Lam
• Published 10 November 2020
• Business
• The Canadian Journal of Program Evaluation

The concept of Theory of Change (ToC) is well established in the evalu­ ation literature, underpinning substantial research and practice eff orts. However, its ability to facilitate learning has been increasingly debated. The objective of this paper is to identify, characterize, and evaluate concerns over the use of ToCs based on a review of relevant studies. Seven concerns are found: distinguishing ToCs from other evaluation approaches, conceptual vagueness, under-developed ToCs, undercontribution to theoretical knowledge, uncertainty in stakeholder engagement, ne­ glecting context, and overlooking complexity. Priority areas for improvement include integrating context and complexity throughout the ToC process, contributing theo­ retical knowledge, and engaging stakeholders as appropriate.