Reference Guide

The Colorado Asthma Toolkit Program was initiated to establish a method for improving asthma care by providing to primary care practices coaching, training, and support for (1) evidence-based asthma diagnosis and treatment, and (2)education and activation of patients toward effective self-management of their illness. Two intertwined training programs, or “toolkits,” were subsequently developed, one each for health care clinicians and patients. Clinicians received coaching sessions that included training in guideline-based methods for evaluation and treatment of asthma, coaching to assist practices in implementing these methods, and training in communication techniques to promote asthma self-management. Practices were also given a spirometer and trained in its use and interpretation. Patient self-management toolkits were provided to clinicians, who were trained to use the materials to educate patients and increase treatment adherence. The program was successful and acceptance by practices was attributable to flexible, in-office coaching and provision of spirometry.

CDC’s National Asthma Control Program and state asthma programs are mobilizing resources to reduce the burden of asthma in communities. This step-by-step guide is intended for use by state and territorial public health departments, and groups that focus on improving asthma management practices. Sound evaluation practices can help ensure that we use those resources effectively and efficiently; that we have a means of demonstrating the value of our programs; and that we are developing a body of knowledge that tells us “what works.” Module 1 of Learning & Growing introduces CDC's Framework for Program Evaluation and focuses on evaluation planning--both strategic evaluation planning for a five year grant cycle as well as individual evaluation planning for a specific evaluation project. Subsequent modules will focus on evaluation implementation.

Logic Model Basics

"What difference are you making? How do you know it? What is the value of your program?" Do these questions sound familiar? Are they questions you are being asked?  The logic model helps us design results-based programs and have data to answer important questions. This course has 7 sections. We start with a basic, simple concept and add to it over the various sections to provide a thorough foundation in the use of logic models. Each section contains many useful resources and activities. We hope you will explore them fully.

A note to users of this PDF document:

This document is a static, printable version of an interactive, online course available at:

http://www.uwex.edu/ces/lmcourse/

This document serves two groups of learners:

1. Those with limited internet access (either due to cost or time) who want a version of the course that can be downloaded and used offline.

2. Those who want a printed version for reading and taking notes while working through the online course, or as a stand alone learning tool.

We have attempted to make the PDF file easy to navigate and use, but it will not replicate the interactive experience that an online user would have.