Co-Developing an impact model for evaluating the societal impact of participatory research approaches

Abstract

In recent years, an increased focus on societal impact of research unfolding through productive interactions between stakeholders and participatory research processes has been seen. These complex interventions call for more flexible and participatory evaluation processes. This paper sets out to describe the co-creative development of an Impact Model and Reflection Instruments by different stakeholders that make desired and expected societal effects of participatory research visible, and enable a systematic evaluation of these expected changes. The aim of the Impact Model and the (modular) set of Impact Reflection Instruments is first and foremost to support researchers in the planning and evaluation of societal impacts of their participatory research approaches. In addition, we share the design of the co-development phase and reflections that serve as practical guidance for evaluators who aim to apply theory-based models in participatory settings in other contexts. Finally, the Impact Model and Reflection Instruments aim to enable increased comparability across research projects with participatory research approaches.