Network for Transdisciplinary Research td-net
Theory of Change - td-net toolbox 5 Belcher, B., Claus, R. 2020.
A practical approach for interative planning, monitoring, evaluation and learning for change-oriented research.
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A theory of change (ToC) is a model of a change process. It provides a description and explanation of how and why an activity or a set of activities (such as a project or program) is expected to lead or contribute to a process of change. A ToC is not a single theory but a set of theories that describes and explains the multiple steps in a change process. The approach recognizes that socio-ecological systems are complex, and that causal processes are often non-linear with multiple interactions and feedback loops. A ToC details the main actors involved in the process, identifies their actions as a sequence of steps or stages in the process, and specifies the theoretical reasons for the changes. ToC can be used as a planning tool, as a framework for monitoring and evaluation, and as an analytical tool. ToC principles are transferable to non-research contexts, such as higher education programming, development projects, or other change-oriented initiatives