What is the purpose of a program theory?

A program theory serves as a framework that articulates how a program is expected to achieve its goals and objectives. It details the relationship between the resources invested, the activities conducted, and the intended outcomes. By providing a clear understanding of the mechanisms driving a program, program theory helps stakeholders visualize the path from inputs to outcomes, allowing them to grasp how specific actions are hypothesized to lead to desired changes.

This clarity is essential for both the design and evaluation of the program. When stakeholders understand the underlying logic of the program, they can more effectively assess its implementation and measure its success. Consequently, program theory becomes a vital tool for guiding program development and refining approaches based on evidence of what works.

The other choices focus on specific aspects related to program management or evaluation processes that do not capture the comprehensive explanatory role played by program theory itself.