StoryCorps

Conceptualizing a Theory of Change and Evaluation Metrics

StoryCorps, a national organization dedicated to enabling Americans of all backgrounds to share, record and preserve the stories of their lives, required expertise to develop an evaluation approach and capacity-building plan.

Challenge

Cora Group conceptualized a comprehensive framework for evaluating outcomes for participants, listeners, the media, communities and society at large, working with stakeholders to clarify the strategic vision and expectations. The work entailed an assessment of information systems and staff capacity to support the evaluation function. We developed evaluation study designs and provided technical assistance with implementation to meet specific program evaluation goals. Additionally, we conducted an experimental study to observe effects of first-person narrative storytelling on listener attitudes toward people unlike themselves. We subsequently presented the findings with a StoryCorps representative at a professional conference in Chicago, IL.

Solution

Strengthened organizational capacity and infrastructure to perform outcome evaluation. Created an Evaluation Specialist position. Collected empirical evidence to strengthen theory-of-change. Disseminated results of the evaluation study by co-presenting with newly hired Evaluation Specialist at a national conference.

Outcome