From Programme Theory to Constructivism
- 1 July 2001
- journal article
- Published by SAGE Publications in Evaluation
- Vol. 7 (3) , 331-349
- https://doi.org/10.1177/13563890122209711
Abstract
Theory-based evaluation utilizes terms such as ‘moderators’ and ‘CMO configurations’ to describe how the validity of a programme theory depends on the context in which it operates. From a constructivist perspective, however, contexts are influenced by ongoing social (re)construction. The truth value of a programme theory is contingent upon this construction. This helps explain why tests of programme theories provided by theory-based evaluators are often unconvincing to programme advocates. A typology of ‘magic’, ‘tragic’ and ‘competing’ programmes, each of which influence their contexts in different ways, is described and the implications for evaluation discussed.Keywords
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