Using concept mapping as a tool for program theory development
Date
2011
Authors
Orsi, Rebecca, author
Cobb, R. Brian, advisor
Hoeting, Jennifer A., committee member
Lynham, Susan A., committee member
Speer, Paul W., committee member
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Abstract
concept mappingThe purpose of this methodological study is to explore how well a process called (Trochim, 1989) can articulate the theory which underlies a social program. Articulation of a program's theory is a key step in completing a sound theory based evaluation (Weiss, 1997a). In this study, concept mapping is used to articulate the outcomes domain of a program theory, using Chen's (1990) six domains for program theory as an organizing framework. A grassroots community organization in Denver, Colorado, provides context for the study. With reference to Dubin's (1978) distinctions for theoretical units as a guide, the results of concept mapping are analyzed to determine whether they are useful in building a program theory. Results are also are evaluated to determine whether they present a comprehensive, parsimonious (Whetten, 1989) and valid representation of outcomes from the community organizing intervention. Methodological and statistical considerations for using concept mapping are mentioned. The study concludes that concept mapping is a promising tool for theory articulation. Study limitations and opportunities for future research are also discussed.
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Subject
community organizing
concept mapping
program evaluation
program theory
research methods
theory based evaluation