ERIC Number: EJ1461768
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Feb
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1389-4986
EISSN: EISSN-1573-6695
Available Date: 2025-02-21
Identifying Mechanisms of Action for Implementation Strategies Using a Retrospective Implementation Mapping Logic Model Approach
Timothy J. Walker1,2; Funlola Are3; Natalia I. Heredia1,2; Kempson Onadeko1; Emma E. Saving1; Eunyoung Kang1,2; Maria E. Fernandez1,2
Prevention Science, v26 n2 p161-174 2025
Understanding causal mechanisms for implementation strategies is a priority for implementation and health promotion research. Logic models are helpful for understanding and illustrating mechanisms through which implementation strategies operate. Little guidance exists for developing logic models for existing implementation strategies. We demonstrate how to use Implementation Mapping (IM) in a retrospective manner to develop an IMap Logic Model for a social-emotional learning program implemented at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Houston (BGCGH). To inform logic model development, we used qualitative interview data (from implementers) and conversations with program organizers. To develop the logic model, we specified the most accessible information, beginning with the program and health-related outcomes. We then specified the implementation strategies and implementation outcomes, followed by change methods (i.e., theoretical techniques that influence positive change in determinants), practical applications (i.e., specific techniques for operationalizing change methods), and determinants (factors that influence implementation) and other contextual factors. The effectiveness outcomes for the program were to improve emotion regulation and social skills among youth. Clinician implementers delivered the program and BGCGH club directors and staff supported delivery. The implementation strategies were (1) group leader trainings; (2) implementation guide; (3) BGCGH staff training; (4) needs assessments (via site visits); (5) follow-up meetings; and (6) pilot program check-in meetings. Collectively, the strategies used various practical applications (e.g., scenario discussions, reviewing procedures) to operationalize change methods (e.g., active learning, participatory problem solving) to address determinants (e.g., knowledge, interorganizational relationships). The strategy set out to improve implementation behaviors (e.g., delivering program components as prescribed) and implementation outcomes (e.g., fidelity). The developed IMap Logic Model can be used to inform implementation evaluation efforts by helping identify outcomes, mediators, and moderators. The logic model can also be used to identify gaps that, if addressed, can help ongoing implementation and scale-up efforts.
Descriptors: Health Promotion, Social Emotional Learning, Youth Clubs, Program Implementation, Educational Strategies, Logical Thinking, Models, Concept Mapping, Partnerships in Education, Medical School Faculty, Medical Schools, Student Behavior, Health Behavior, Resilience (Psychology)
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) (DHHS/NIH), Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) (DHHS/NIH); National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) (DHHS/NIH)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Texas (Houston)
Grant or Contract Numbers: UL1TR003167; 1K01HL151817; K01MD019149
Author Affiliations: 1University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Center for Health Promotion and Prevention Research, School of Public Health, Houston, USA; 2University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Institute for Implementation Science, Houston, USA; 3University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Louis A. Faillace, M.D., Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, Houston, USA