Logic Models: The Link Between Program Planning and Evaluation in Tobacco Control

1. Logic Models:The Link BetweenProgram Planning and Evaluation in Tobacco Control Emma Lopez1, Dawn Berney2, Allison Gertel2 1Department of Health and Senior Services, Vineland Community Nursing Service 2 New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, Division of Addiction Services, Prevention Services

2. Learning Objective • Participants will recognize how to use logic models to assess whether their programs are moving toward their desired outcomes

3. Agenda • Need for evaluation • Description of logic model • Explanation of how state and locals can use logic models • Discussion of how one state’s tobacco control program uses logic models

4. Need for evaluation • Allows us to determine whether a program is achieving its stated goals and objectives • Provides information so that we can improve our programs • Provides a feedback loop

5. What is a logic model? • Graphical representation of a program and its expected outcomes • Logic model shows: If we do a particular activity then an expected outcome will occur • If the activity does not realistically lead to the expected outcome then we need to consider other options for activities

6. How can states and locals use logic models in program planning and evaluation? • With clearly defined goals, the logic models can be used to identify who to funded • Logic models can be used to help identify which programs need additional support • Logic models can help to decide how to measure outcomes • Logic models need to be revised regularly

7. Examples of how logic models are used in NJ • Cumberland County Communities Against Tobacco Coalition (CAT) • Identify which mini-grant proposals it should fund • Supervise grantees • New Jersey Comprehensive Tobacco Control Program (CTCP) • Use as a tool to orient new CAT coordinators • Use to ensure that the programs fit with the required objectives and they can be measured • Use to identify needed program changes

8. How can we increase the use of logic models? • Important to get “buy-in” from those who will use logic models • Show how to use them program planning and achieving outcomes • Show their usefulness in measuring outcomes • Show how they fit into the overall evaluation • Provide training and technical assistance: • Workshops • One-on-one meetings • Information provided via websites • Provide feedback

9. Summary Activity Outcomes Provide logic model trainings and technical assistance Increase # of grantees that develop logic models that fit their programs Increase the # of activities that should lead to the program outcomes Increase the # of programs that achieve their expected outcomes