B) Theory-Based Evaluation (TBE)

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The second version of the Full 1-2-3 Method involves theory-based evaluation. If you are not familiar with or need to remind yourself of theory-based approaches, click here (Traditional tools)

Theory-based evaluation can refer to a process (way of thinking about and doing evaluation) as well as to more specific models such as the Theory of Change.

At the risk of oversimplifying, you start with a theory (which can be relatively simple or quite complex) and then test and refine it. This can lead you to alter your project and its objectives in line with the new evidence-based theory.

Theory-based approaches can use quantitative techniques but do arguably lend themselves better to qualitative methods.

 Theory-Based Evaluation
Step 1:
Type of Evaluation		Choose Theory-Based Evaluation & Construct Theory of Change
Step 2:
Data Collection/ Analysis		Choose your preferred technique:
– Most Significant Change
– Focus Group
– Survey/Questionnaire
– Appreciation Line
– Graffiti Wall
– Time Diagram
Step 3:
Data Checking		Choose your preferred technique:
-Semi-structured Interviews
-Community Interviews
-Document Analysiss

If you use the 1-2-3 method with your theory-based evaluation, we would welcome any feedback or, equally, you may want to share your thoughts with us. If so, see the Contact Us page.

Where to next?

Click here to return to the top of the page and here to move on to step one of theory-based evaluation (TBE)

Contact us

If you have used this method, we welcome any feedback. Equally, you may want to share your thoughts with us. If so, see the Contact Us page.