My Insights and Applications on Theory of Change in International Development
Jul 24, 20245 min read
Updated: Jul 25, 2024
In the dynamic field of international development, a Theory of Change (ToC) framework, as detailed by Valters (2015), has become a cornerstone for strategising and evaluating initiatives aimed at creating sustainable impact. This approach provides a comprehensive roadmap, elucidating how and why specific interventions are expected to lead to desired outcomes, thus fostering a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving social change.
Understanding the Theory of Change
A Theory of Change articulates a clear pathway from inputs and activities to long-term goals, underpinned by explicit assumptions about the change process. Stein and Valters (2012) highlight the multifaceted purposes of ToC, including strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation, description, and learning. These elements collectively contribute to a robust framework that aids organisations in not only planning and implementing interventions but also in reflecting on and learning from their experiences.
Key Components of Theory of Change
Strategic Planning: ToC helps organisations map out the change process, detailing each step required to achieve the ultimate goal. This strategic roadmap ensures that all activities are aligned with the desired outcomes.
Monitoring and Evaluation: By clearly defining expected outcomes and the processes leading to them, ToC provides a structured approach for assessing progress and making necessary adjustments.
Description: ToC serves as a communication tool, enabling organisations to convey their strategies and expected impacts to stakeholders, thereby fostering transparency and accountability.
Learning: ToC encourages continuous reflection and learning, helping organisations to refine their strategies based on real-world experiences and evidence.
In addition to these components, Valters (2015) emphasises four key principles for effectively employing the Theory of Change in development projects:
Participation and Inclusion: Ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders, particularly those who are marginalised, are included in the development and ongoing refinement of the ToC. This inclusivity fosters a sense of ownership and commitment among stakeholders.
Critical Reflection: Encouraging regular and honest reflection on assumptions, progress, and outcomes. This principle advocates for a culture where questioning and challenging the status quo is normalised, leading to more adaptive and resilient strategies.
Iterative Learning: Viewing ToC as a living document that evolves over time based on new insights and changing contexts. This principle underscores the importance of flexibility and adaptability in development work.
Transparency and Accountability: Maintaining openness in communicating the ToC process and findings. This transparency builds trust among stakeholders and enhances the credibility and legitimacy of the development initiatives.
Practical Applications: Examples in Action
Example 1: Education Programs in Conflict Zones
Imagine an NGO working to improve education in a conflict-affected region. Using the ToC framework, they might start with the assumption that providing safe learning environments will increase school attendance and improve educational outcomes. The activities could include building secure school facilities, training teachers in trauma-informed practices, and engaging the community to support education. The ToC would map out how these activities are expected to lead to increased school attendance, better educational outcomes, and ultimately, a more educated and resilient community.
Example 2: Health Interventions in Rural Areas
A health-focused organisation might use ToC to address high maternal mortality rates in rural areas. Their theory could posit that training local midwives and providing necessary medical supplies will improve maternal health outcomes. Activities might include setting up training programs, distributing supplies, and creating support networks for pregnant women. The ToC framework would help the organisation plan these activities, monitor their implementation, and evaluate their impact on maternal health.
Personal Experience: Applying Theory of Change
Designing, Creating and Opening a new school in a post-Soviet context
In my own career, I have effectively utilised the ToC framework in various educational and development projects. For instance, when establishing the first international school in Eastern Slovakia during the COVID-19 pandemic, I employed a ToC approach to navigate the complex challenges of opening a new school under unprecedented conditions. By mapping out a clear pathway from securing funding and resources to achieving educational excellence, and by continuously reflecting on and adjusting strategies based on real-time feedback and data, I was able to create a successful and sustainable educational institution.
Delivering appropriate support amongst challenging social justice perspectives in Hoi An
During my time as an insider-reseacher volunteering in the rural Quang-nam province of Viet Nam with Children’s Hope In Action (CHIA), I applied the Theory of Change framework to address critical social justice issues. I focused on investigating the equity, diversity, and inclusion aspects of the NGO’s operations, particularly the influence of governmental control over aid distribution. Observing that the NGO's certification of "poor" individuals was often misaligned with actual needs and problematic outsider, Western perspectives, I proposed transformative actions using the ToC framework. This included generating appropriate grant funding applications, training staff in critical pedagogy and ICT skills, improving communication with international donors, and creating sustainable support programs. A key initiative was the introduction of community training sessions where staff shared new skills with local families, fostering empowerment and overcoming governmental constraints. By continuously reflecting on and adapting our strategies based on real-world feedback, we improved service delivery, significantly enhancing the lives of children and families in Quang Nam province.
Delivering on SDG 4 with UNDP
More recently, I volunteered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in delivering Sustainable Development Goal 4 through their Global Citizenship Programme. My remote, online position allowed me to collaborate with diverse groups at universities and colleges in Viet Nam, specifically targeting students from rural areas. Utilising the Theory of Change framework, I developed and implemented a structured plan to foster global citizenship and cultural inclusiveness. This included preparing and delivering engaging content that highlighted cultural diversity and facilitated interactive sessions aimed at enhancing students' understanding of global interconnections. The ToC approach enabled me to map out the desired outcomes, such as increased cultural awareness and critical thinking skills among students, and continuously refine the strategy based on feedback and observations. By integrating this structured methodology, I was able to effectively contribute to the educational and social development goals of the program, ultimately empowering marginalised students with a broader perspective on global citizenship.
A New Step Forward for ToC
The Theory of Change framework, as elucidated by Valters (2015), is an invaluable tool in the international development sector. It provides a structured yet flexible approach to planning, implementing, and evaluating interventions, ensuring that all activities are strategically aligned with desired outcomes. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and reflection, ToC empowers organisations to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing landscape of international development.
Incorporating this approach into my own work – seen from just a few examples provided –
has enabled me to achieve significant impacts, from launching new educational institutions to managing complex international development projects. As the field continues to evolve, the Theory of Change will undoubtedly remain a critical component of successful and sustainable development initiatives. The next step is to see how it encompasses Generative AI into development practices.
Stein, D. and Valters, C. (2012) Understanding Theory of Change in International Development, The Justice and Security Programme: Paper 1, The Asia Foundation, London, UK. Available at: