Discussion: Using Logic Models in Human and Social Services

Logic models are made up of several components: inputs, activities, outputs, and outcomes. These components are placed in one of six vertical columns to designate the resources needed for the program, the services offered by the program, the quantifiable products or outputs of the services, the immediate impacts of the program, the intermediate outcomes of the program, and the long-term outcomes of the program. Accordingly, it is imperative that you identify all the required components and place them in the correct columns. Otherwise, your program may not make sense, lack appropriate resources to meet its outcomes, or even fail to show outcomes at all.  There are many ways to approach the creation of logic models. Some scholars believe you should approach them with the “end in mind”—meaning, figure out where to begin today, then work forward from there. Other scholars believe that you should “think backward”—meaning, figure out what goals you want to achieve first, and then work backward from there.  

In this Discussion, you post two ways you think a logic model could be useful in evaluating human and social services programs. Then, you explain whether you support creating logic models using the “plan with the end in mind” approach or the “think backwards” approach.  To Prepare •Review the Logic Model Workbook in this week’s Learning Resources. •Consider your impressions of logic models and how they can be applied to human and social services programs. •Think about the arrows in the example logic model. Do they move in a way that makes sense? Could you look at logic models another way and get a better result?  

  Post two ways you think a logic model could be useful in evaluating human and social services programs. Be sure to support your post with the Learning Resources. Finally, explain whether you support creating logic models using the “plan with the end in mind” approach or “think backward” approach. Be sure to justify your response.