Introduction to theory of change

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Join us on 11 March (10:00–13:00) and 19 March (09:30–12:30) for a practical and supportive introduction to theory of change and how it can be used to design stronger interventions and more meaningful evaluations. 

This training combines:

• an online introductory session
• a week of self-paced work
• an in-person review and development session, giving you the time, tools and support needed to develop a Core Theory of Change for your own work. 

The training is designed for those who are new to evaluation and theory of change, and will introduce key concepts, practical tools and structured opportunities for peer learning and feedback, alongside support from the TASO team. 

You should come with an intervention or activity in mind for your theory of change.

Linked session

We will also be hosting a training event on ‘Enhancing and applying theory of change’ on 22 April and 30 April. While each event can be attended independently, they work best together, offering a fuller understanding of how to design a Core Theory of Change, develop it into an Enhanced Theory of Change, and apply it in evaluation planning.

Who should attend?

This training is designed for those: 

• in any role with evaluation or impact responsibilities
• new to evaluation and theory of change 
• working in higher education or the third sector (examples used in training will be tailored to higher education)

Why attend?

By attending, you will: 

• learn what a theory of change is and how it supports intervention and evaluation design
• gain hands-on experience using TASO’s tools, such as our Theory of Change Builder and Mapping Outcome and Activities Tools (MOATs)
• develop a completed Core Theory of Change for your intervention, supported by TASO staff
• learn how to critically review and improve theories of change
• network with others working across the sector and learn from their work 
• build skills and knowledge you can share with colleagues.

By the end of the training, you will be better equipped to make evidence-informed decisions, identify realistic outcomes, and think more clearly about how your activities lead to change.

What will you gain?

By the end of the training, you will have:

• a completed Core Theory of Change that can be further developed into an Enhanced Theory of Change
• greater confidence in using theories of change to inform practice and evaluation
• a clearer understanding of the logic, assumptions and risks underlying your intervention
• practical experience critiquing, refining and developing theories of change
• confidence to develop theories of change independently in future

Agenda

Session 1: Introduction to theory of change (online)

• 11 March (10:00–13:00) 
• Location: Online
• Facilitators: Katherine Drew and Aniela Bankowicz

Self-paced work: Develop your Core Theory of Change

One week between sessions

• Develop your Core Theory of Change using the Theory of Change Builder
• Optional readings, resources and static templates provided
• Email support available from TASO

Session 2: Finalising your theory of change (in-person)

• 19 March (09:30–12:30)
• Location: In person at TASO Offices, 58 Victoria Embankment, London EC4Y 0DS
• Facilitators: Katherine Drew, Aniela Bankowicz and Hannah Thomson