Logic Modeling: A Tool for Improving Educational Programs

Abstract

Purpose

: Palliative care education programs must be systematically designed and accurately evaluated in order to account for their impact on learners and learning communities. Logic modeling is a framework for designing educational programs and monitoring their influence.

Methods

: We applied a logic modeling process to a Palliative Care Educational Program (PCEP), embedded within a required month-long geriatrics rotation for third-year general internal medicine residents at the VA Medical Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Each of four main categories of a logic model and the process for applying the steps to the PCEP are described. The four logic model categories that form the basis of the analysis are: (1) inputs, the raw resources consumed by the program (human resources, money, and space); (2) outputs, program activities and the number and types of actual participants; (3) outcomes, what the program will achieve in the short term (knowledge, attitudes and behavior change); and (4) impact, the results that are of ultimate interest to program stakeholders, such as placement in medically underserved areas, improved health or more efficient care.

Results

: The application of logic modeling to the PCEP exposed achievements (e.g., resident knowledge gains) and gaps (no evidence of long-term impact) in each of the model categories and has resulted in the design team's reassessment of each program component.

Discussion

: Palliative care educators can improve their programs by using the logic model categories and process steps to explicitly define and assess the links between key program components.