Making a DifferenceOutcome-based Program

Planning

Val Cortes, Leadership Development Coordinator

leadership@utoronto.caStaff Day of Learning May 8, 2009

By the end of this session you:

① Will be able to explain what outcome-based program planning is

② Will identify the components of a program logic model

③ Have an increased confidence and motivation to try outcomes-based program planning

Group Agreements• We all bring expertise to the session

• This presentation is just a taste• Ask questions, participate• Let others share their ideas• Take care of own needs• Listen to understand• Maintain confidentiality• Have fun!

How do you rate your confidence in your

ability to do outcome-based program planning

Mental Models

• Those deeply held beliefs, assumptions, stories and images that shape our understanding of how the world works

• And often exist below the level of awareness

A focus on whether our programs make a difference in the lives of

participants.

What is outcome-based Program Planning?

It uses their needs and desired outcomes as the foundation for

designing programs.

INPUTS ACTIVITIES OUTPUTS

The “Traditional” Program Model

From: Measuring Program Outcomes: A Practical Approach (1996).

ACTIVITIES OUTPUTSINPUTS

The Outcome-based Program Model

A

New Vs. Existing Programs

So far so good?

Outcome 1: Participants will be able to explain what outcome-based program planning is

Program Logic Model

What is a program logic model?A picture of a program, initiative or intervention.

Program logic models look different depending on • Purpose• Complexity of the program• Domain

W. K. Kellogg Foundation PLM

University of Wisconsin PLM

In Summary:

Common pitfalls of PLM• Working in columns and forgetting the connections• Confusing it for evaluation• Seeing it as an academic exercise• Struggling with the level of detail or language• Not narrowing the function/purpose• Viewing it as a panacea• Only wanting a paper product • Complaining that it is linear

About outcomes-based program planning: hypothesis

A PLM is a systems model

Let’s practice

• Based on what you've learned so far, think of a simple program you are working on or are planning.

• Using the worksheet or your own design, create a logic model for the program. Be sure to include all six components of logic models, and use lines and arrows to illustrate direct linkages between and among components.

So far so good?

Outcome 2: Will identify the components of a program logic model

Outcome 3: Have an increased confidence and motivation to try outcomes-based program planning

The magic wand exercise

• I wish to see_________________• If you had a magic wand what problems would your program solve?

• What ideal future do you want to create? For whom?

• Be aware of the needs of participants (target group)

Remember it’s not about you!Remember it’s not about you!