EffectiveArts combines the power of interactive drama with rigorous social science research practices. We believe that if we say that we are going to make a difference, we should be held accountable for that difference being made. Without proper research practices: a) success in unlikely in the first place (or at best an accident), and b) no results are measured so impact can’t be determined. In the world of science, “I just know in my heart we made a difference!” just doesn’t fly.

Social science comes into play at four stages during the life-cycle of a program or project:

1. In the beginning, when the objective (i.e. difference to make) is conceptualized in a solid way and grounded in current research. This increases the chances that the intended outcome will be achieved. The measurement system is also designed at this stage and baseline data gathered.

2. During the process, when the work is held to exacting standards and the appropriate indicators of progress are monitored.

3. At the end, when rigorous and thoughtful analyses of the process and outcomes are performed.

4. Ongoing (longitudinal) measurement. Ongoing measurement allows for trends to be determined and new actions undertaken if an organization is going off-course. EffectiveArts leaves the measurement instruments in place at the end of the program so that your organization can use them for ongoing monitoring.

Click here to read an example.