Introduction to research: Logic models

Written By: Author(s): Gary Jones and Deborah Netolicky
1 min read

What’s the idea?

Whether you are planning to implement an intervention or are thinking about how to carry out an evaluation, it is essential to have a clear understanding of what you are trying to do. A logic model is one way to help you do this.

What does it mean?

A logic model graphically illustrates and provides a framework for the components of an intervention in terms of inputs, outputs and outcomes.

  • Inputs represent the resources that are put into the intervention: money, time and skills.
  • Outputs are what is done: the activities associated with the intervention and who it reaches.
  • Outcomes are the changes and benefits which accrue in the short, medium and long-term. For example, change in teacher knowledge and skills, application in the classroom and improvements in student learning.

What are the implications for teachers?

  • Understanding. Developing a logic model will give you a greater understanding of what needs to be done to make the innovation work, and at the same time gives you a framework for evaluation.
  • Alignment. Logic models help you to align activities and effects. By developing a logic model for an intervention it can help you spot those intended activities with no supporting activities and resources, and then make the suitable adjustments.
  • Supporting the collaborative planning process. The development of a logic model is an iterative process developed by colleagues working together. This can help build a shared understanding of what needs to be done to make an intervention work. It is also helpful when you are looking to disseminate an intervention within or between schools.
  • Accountability and outcomes. In schools where resources are increasingly scarce, a logic model can keep a focus on the outcomes of an intervention and on whether the planned for outcomes are actually happening.

Want to know more?

  • EEF (2016) Thinking, Doing, Talking Science. Available at: https://educationendowmentfoundation.org.uk/public/files/Projects/Evaluation_Protocols/Regrant-_Thinking__doing__talking_science_June_2016.pdf (accessed 28 May 2019).
  • Corcoran R (2017) Logic Models: Developing Impact Studies. Irinstitutes. Available at: https://irinstitutes.org/logic-models-developing-impact-studies/ (accessed 28 May 2019).
  • Knowlton LM and Phillips C (2013) The Logic Model Guidebook: Better Strategies for Great Results. (2nd ed). San Francisco, CA: SAGE.
  • Community Tool Box (2018) Section 1: Developing a Logic Model or Theory of Change. Chapter 2: Other Models for Promoting Community Health and Development. Available at: https://ctb.ku.edu/en/table-of-contents/overview/models-for-community-health-and-development/logic-model-development/main (accessed 28 May).

This article was published in May 2019 and reflects the terminology and understanding of research and evidence in use at the time. Some terms and conclusions may no longer align with current standards. We encourage readers to approach the content with an understanding of this context.

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