A systemic ‘Theories of Change’ approach for projects and change initiatives in the context of quality enhancement activity in Higher Education

Hart, Diane ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2642-7814 (2019) A systemic ‘Theories of Change’ approach for projects and change initiatives in the context of quality enhancement activity in Higher Education. In: Problem Structuring Approaches for the Management of Projects: demonstrating successful practice. Springer, Cham, pp. 1-34. ISBN 9783319932637 (ebook); 9783319932620 (hardcover); 9783030066246 (softcover)

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Abstract

A systemic Theory of Change approach to projects and change initiatives is explained and illustrated in the context of educational development activity using case studies from a large UK University. The approach involves facilitated modelling used to support organisational learning. Models are updated through action learning cycles of planning, implementation, evaluation and reflection. The theoretical basis is justified in relation to reflective practice, organisational learning, participative and theory-based programme evaluation and critical systems thinking. The critical reflection from its application to the case studies is not presented as ‘proof’ of effectiveness or good practice, but only to provide insight into what was found useful and learned from the applications in this context, to help others assess the usefulness and transferability to their situations of interest.