Journal Articles

Goldman, Karen Denard, and Kathleen Jahn Schmalz. 2006.  Logic Models: The Picture Worth Ten Thousand Words. Health Promotion and Practice 7 (1): 8-12.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Please discuss the concept of a logic model, and what uses it has in understanding how programs and processes work.
  2. How can logic models be used to identify shortcomings in a program?
  3. How are logic models used to promote communication among stakeholders?

 

Judd, Charles M., and David A. Kenny. 1981. Process Analysis: Estimating Mediation in Treatment Evaluations. Evaluation Review 5(5): 602-619.

Abstract: This article presents the rationale and procedures for conducting a process analysis in evaluation research. Such an analysis attempts to identify the process that mediates the effects of some treatment, by estimating the parameters of a causal chain between the treatment and some outcome variable. Two different procedures for estimating mediation are discussed. In addition we present procedures for examining whether a treatment exerts its effects, in part, by altering the mediating process that produces the outcome. Finally, the benefits of process analysis in evaluation research are underlined.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Please discuss three ways that process models are valuable to evaluation analysis.
  2. How do process models integrate in previous research and theories as part of the design?
  3. How does using a process model allow the researcher to be more confident in his/her study?

 

Sahakian, Marlyne, and Harold Wilhite. 2014. Making Practice Theory Practicable: Towards More Sustainable Forms of Consumption. Journal of Consumer Research, 14 (1): 25-44.

Abstract: In recent years, there has been growing interest in applying social practice theory to theorizing consumption, specifically in relation to transforming practices that have problematic environmental impacts. In this paper, we address the questions: how do changes in practices occur, and what are the levers for influencing change towards more sustainable consumption practices? We argue that a view of agency distributed across people, things and social contexts is fruitful. We also explore learning through membership in communities of practice, where people are involved in experiments with or exposure to new practices. We relate three case studies in the arena of food consumption practices then discuss the practicalities and pitfalls involved in translating social practice approaches into practicable recommendations for encouraging more sustainable forms of consumption.

Discussion Questions:

  1. Please discuss specific ways that the authors link theory to practice in the article, particularly through the use of empirical examples.
  2. What specific shortcomings do the authors address in putting practice theory into practice?
  3. What are ways that theory can build upon existing ideas to develop a more practicable approach to research?