Issue link: https://takingitglobal.uberflip.com/i/1542824
R. Adeboye, C. Flewelling,V. Ogbole, E. O'Sullivan 9 In 2001, Mayne introduced the concept of Contribution Analysis, which he and others have since continued to refine and elaborate. In his 2019 work, Mayne restates the steps of Contribution Analysis as follows (p.173): Step 1: Set out the specific cause-effect questions to be addressed Step 2: Develop robust theories of change for the intervention and its pathways Step 3: Gather the existing evidence on the components of the theory of change model of causality: ● The results achieved ● The causal link assumptions realized Step 4: Assemble and assess the resulting contribution claim, and the challenges to it Step 5: Seek out additional evidence to strengthen the contribution claim Step 6: Revise and strengthen the contribution claim Step 7: Return to Step 4 if necessary With respect to Step 1, instead of traditional cause-effect questions like "has the intervention caused the outcome," Contribution Analysis asks contribution and management-oriented questions, with the following being deemed the most appropriate for the current evaluation of Connected North: "Is it reasonable to conclude that the intervention has made a difference? Has it added value? What does the preponderance of evidence say about how well the intervention is making a difference? What conditions are needed to make this type of intervention succeed?" (Mayne, 2011, p.64). The more specific evaluation questions will be presented in an upcoming section. With respect to Step 2, an extensive review of program documentation as well as basic scoping and validation conversations with the Connected North CEO were undertaken to develop the Program Theory that was the basis for this evaluation. Documents reviewed included: ● The Connected North website, including the embedded program news and updates. ● A 2021 evaluation entitled Connected North: A journey of transformation & well-being. Prepared for TakingITGlobal Connected North Program ● Connected North in Our Classroom, a 2024 book curated by Connected North and featuring stories, insights and advice on using Connected North, meant as a resource for other teachers. ● Connected North 2024-25 Session Menu and online booking tool. ● Snapshots of performance data. ● The 2023-24 Connected North School Lead Toolkit, which outlines the roles, responsibilities, and best practices of school leads. ● Training for Connected North Hosts, which outlines the roles, responsibilities, and best practices of session hosts. ● The online Connected North Content Provider Hub, including a five- module training program covering Meaningful Land Acknowledgement, Facilitation of Student Interactivity, Creatively Customized Content, Indigenous Histories & Contributions, and Trauma-informed Approaches and a Focus on Well-Being.