A Conceptual Framework for Infusing Behavior Change Theories into

Program Design, Delivery, and Evaluation: A Financial Education Example

Lisa A. Guion, Ed.D.
Professor of Extension Education
North Carolina State University
Travella R. Free
Extension Associate North Carolina Cooperative Extension
North Carolina A&T State University
Abstract
There is an old adage that says knowing and not doing is equal to not knowing. The aim of educational
programs is to equip clientele with knowledge, skills and tools needed to make lasting changes that
positively impact their lives. Thus, educators must focus their change strategies and educational activities
on intentionally facilitating behavior change among their clientele. Behavior change and practice adoption
are complex, multi-layered and multifaceted. Several decades of research have resulted in refined theories
and conceptual models of behavior change/practice adoption. In the current literature, most programs
adopt one theory of change. This article is unique in that it synergistically draws from several theories to
provide a more comprehensive understanding of how educators can promote behavior change among
their clientele, which includes the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change, Diffusion of Innovation
Theory, and Ecological Systems Theory. The Targeting Outcomes of Programs provides the evaluation
model. In essence, this article builds upon leading theories and models by infusing change strategies that
educators can employ to increase the likelihood that change will occur, and providing general evaluation
indicators for each stage of behavior change. While grounded in theory, this article provides practical
insights into designing and evaluating high-impact educational programs that produce behavior change.

Keyword List- Behavior Change, Practice Adoption, Financial Management, Program

Strategies

Introduction
America today is burdened with deeply rooted economic challenges and instability within the
financial market. The ailing economy has resulted in over one million bankruptcy filings for the
2008 fiscal year (Schwartz 2008). Panic and uncertainty has caused many Americans to change
the way they think about their financial situation (Redmond 2008). The current trend shows that
every three months 250,000 new families enter into foreclosure (Schwartz 2008). The number of
homes threatened with foreclosure jumped 24% in the first quarter of 2009 (Zibel 2009).
Consumer debt is at a record high while savings rates are low (Fetterman 2005). Financial
education is not only an urgent need for many families, but a necessity for their mere survival.
Providing money management strategies will not only give families the confidence they need to
meet the challenges during an economic decline but, also the wisdom to make sound decisions
in times of economic stability.
Education is essential in helping people make better decisions for their families and their future.
Families need to apply basic financial principles that allow them to pay off debt, build savings
and invest for the future. Educators can help transform the way people think about and manage
their personal finances. It must be the aim of financial education that real behavior change occur
as a result of individuals gaining knowledge on financial topics such as budgeting, spending, the
costs of credit, the present value of money, and saving for retirement (Seiling and Shockey
2006; Braunstein and Welch 2002). When families truly understand how changing specific
behaviors/practices can place them in a positive financial position it allows them to face the
challenges, develop a realistic plan of action, and become better prepared for the future.
Likewise, as agents of change, financial educators must employ educational strategies that will
increase the likelihood that behavior change will occur.
To support financial educators, the lead author developed a conceptual framework based upon
the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change, Diffusion of Innovation Theory, and Ecological
Systems Theory. The Targeting Outcomes of Programs provides the evaluation model for the
framework. The next section of this paper (Theoretical Foundation) provides an overview of
those three behavior change theories and the evaluation model. This is followed by the heart of

the paper which is the discussion and examples of how the conceptual framework: 1) builds
upon those leading behavior change/practice adoption theories by infusing change strategies
educators can employ during program design and implementation to increase the likelihood that
change will occur; and 2) links evaluation strategies that educators can use during each stage
of behavior change to document program outputs, outcomes, and impacts. This framework
builds a solid foundation for educators in using behavior change focused educational strategies
for more effective program development. However, the framework does have potential
limitations/weaknesses as well as strengths. Therefore, the last section of the body of the paper
discusses the implications, limitations and significance of the conceptual framework in order to
guide educators on its optimal use.
Theoretical Foundation for the Conceptual Framework
The Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change (TTM also referred to as stages of change)
was developed by James O. Prochaska and colleagues in the late 1970s. After nearly 25 years
of use, the TTM model was refined by Prochaska, Norcross and DiClemente (1994) to include
processes that help predict and motivate movement across the stages of change. The TTM, one
of the most widely used behavior change models, has been tested and validated. For example,
in a meta-analysis of health behavior change interventions, researchers found that the number
and type of theoretical concepts tailored to stage and processes of change were associated
with positive behavior change (Noar et al. 2007). Additionally, a scan of the literature will
demonstrate that the TTM has been used to empirically explore a variety of behaviors such as
smoking cessation, weight control efforts, mammography screening and condom use, as well as
other family and consumer science related disciplines, including financial and consumer
education (Lown, 2007; Seiling and Shockey, 2006). The TTMs five stages of change will
provide the foundation for the conceptual framework presented here.
The five stages of change in the process of behavior change include: 1) precontemplation, 2)
contemplation, 3) preparation, 4) action and 5) maintenance (Prochaska et al. 1994). During the
pre-contemplation stage, an individual has no intention of changing his/her behavior in the near
future. This theory views change as a process rather than a single event. In attempting to
change behavior a person typically cycles through different stages of change. Each stage of
change describes a persons emotional/motivational readiness to change or progress towards
changing the problem behavior. The stages are not linear in that a person can start at any stage
of change. Also, people can revert back to an earlier stage or skip forward based on internal
and external factors. This is referred to as a spiral pathway (Prochaska et al. 1994). The stages
represent a cyclical process that can vary for each individual.
In addition, TTM incorporates ten processes at different stages of change that help motivate
individual movement across stages which include: 1) consciousness raising, 2) dramatic relief,
3) environmental reevaluation, 4) self-reevaluation, 5) self-liberation, 6) social liberation, 7)
reinforcement management, 8) helping relationships, 9) counterconditioning, and 10) stimulus
control.
Each stage of change and processes will be discussed further within the conceptual framework
along with specific educational change strategies that can be used to increase the likelihood
that clientele will change their behavior/adopt practice.
The Diffusion of Innovation Theory (Diffusion Theory), developed over a century ago by French
sociologist Gabriel Tarde, is also embedded in this conceptual framework. The Diffusion Theory
provides a theoretical explanation of how, why and at what rate new ideas and technologies are
spread and adopted in communities. Everett Rogers expanded on this theory and applied it to
work in agricultural and medical fields in 1962. Hence, it has been used, albeit to a relatively
small degree, in Cooperative Extension program planning for more than 30 years. However, the
focus on program accountability has created a resurgence of interest in Diffusion Theory in
Cooperative Extension (Hubbard and Sandmann, 2007). Rogers (2003) asserts that diffusion
research centers on the conditions which increase or decrease the likelihood that a new idea,
product or practice will be adopted by members of a given community. There are four
subcomponents of the Diffusion Theory which include the: 1) innovation-decision theory, 2)
individual innovativeness theory, 3) theory of rate adoption, and 4) theory of perceived
attributes. Only the theory of perceived attributes has been incorporated into this framework as
it addresses how change is adopted and what can promote adoption. The theory of perceived

attributes involves five key concepts: 1) complexity, 2) compatibility, 3) trialability, 4) relative

advantage and 5) observability. The authors will discuss these concepts within the conceptual
framework and provide educators with examples of how to incorporate perceived attributes into
their program design and delivery.
Also, paramount to this framework is the interaction between the individual implementing the
change and his/her environment. One main criticism of most behavior change theories and
models is the emphasis placed primarily on the individual. One of the leading ecologically based
conceptual frameworks was developed over thirty years ago by Urie Bronfenbrenner. In
Bronfenbrenners Ecological Systems Theory, the underlying premise is that behavior change
occurs at multiple levels of influence within the individuals immediate environment, community,
as well as the larger social system and sociocultural contexts. In recent years several
researchers, mainly in health and human development related disciplines, have refined
Bronfenbrenners theory to develop an ecological approach to behavior change which assumes
that one cannot understand a persons behavior apart from the environment in which he/she
lives and interacts. Behavior change is most likely to occur when an educator addresses
multiple individual and environmental influences or factors. The ecological approach to behavior
change includes intrapersonal factors, interpersonal relationships, organizational factors,
community factors and public policy (Shumaker et al. 2008; Stokols 1996; McLeroy et al 1988).
Not all factors are equally important or carry equal influence for each individual. Factors that are
most important to any given individual are called keystone factors. Just as it is important to
assess and design educational strategies based upon clienteles readiness for change (TTM)
and what promotes adoption of behaviors/practices (Diffusion Theory); it is equally important to
identify and utilize keystone factors that influence behavior change. Therefore, the ecological
approach to behavior change is infused in the framework to address the importance of the
individuals sociocultural and physical environments.
Also, Rogers Diffusion Theory recognizes that it is important that educators address the
communication channel, social networks, cultural influences and external factors that affect the
adoption decision (Rogers 2003). Communication channels are critical in that the way the
information about the change is disseminated and by whom can be a determining factor as to
whether the change is adopted or rejected. Social networks and systems include the type and
amount of social support provided at the family, community and/or institutional level that
promote adoption. Cultural influences include norms, practices, and beliefs that can encourage
or discourage adoption. There may also be other factors external to the individual that can
promote or impede adoption that should be taken into consideration by the educator as he/she
designs an educational program strategy.
The focus on the sociocultural, physical and other external environments outlined in the
Diffusions Theory, coupled with that of the ecological approach, strengthens and adds another
element to the more individual-based TTM theory and will be discussed within the conceptual
framework.
In terms of evaluation, the Targeting Outcomes of Programs (TOP) Model provides the
theoretical undergirding for recommendations on evaluation measures at different stages of
change. The TOP model is based on a theoretically sound framework that has been revised and
refined, and widely used over the past 25 years in extension and other non-formal educational
organizations (Bennett and Rockwell 1995; Bennett 1975). The model includes seven levels of
evidence that can be measured during program evaluation that creates a hierarchy from the
lowest level of evidence to the highest. Level one, the lowest level of evidence, include inputs or
resources that were expended to plan and conduct the program such as time, money and staff.
Process or formative evaluations at this level typically measure the types of resources, how they
were used as well as whether they were leveraged to bring in additional resources. Level two
are activities or outputs of the program such as workshops, classes, demonstrations or other
learning opportunities. An evaluation at that level would primarily assess the number and types
of learning experiences offered, delivery methods used, and the like. Level three is the
participation from the targeted audience in which evaluation measures would include the
number, and demographic characteristics, of the participants. Level four are the reactions of the
participants to the learning opportunities specifically and the overall program generally. This
type of evaluation would assess level of satisfaction and the extent to which participants felt the
program met their needs. The fifth level of the hierarchy is known as KASA which represents
changes in knowledge, attitudes, skills and/or aspirations experienced by the target audience as

a result of the program. The sixth level is behavior change/practice adoption where evaluations
are focused on the type of behavior/practice changed, as well as the frequency, consistency
and longevity of the change. The seventh and highest level of evidence is social, economic and
environmental changes that result from the program. The different stages of change present
unique opportunities to focus in on specific measures embedded in the levels of the evaluation
hierarchy.
Conceptual Framework for Designing and Evaluating Behavior Change Focused
Educational Strategies
Behavior change and implementation of new practices has become a more desirable outcome
of consumer education programs than knowledge acquisition or skill development (Lown 2007).
It is only through changing behaviors and practices that individuals can change their financial
circumstances. Applying the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change (TTM or stages of
change), Diffusion of Innovations Theory (Diffusion Theory), and ecological approach assists
educators in focusing their change strategies and educational activities on intentionally
facilitating behavior change among their clientele. Having information on participants stage of
change is useful to educators in fine tuning their programs to meet the needs of clientele (Lown
2007). Measurement indicators, based upon the Targeting Outcomes of Performance (TOP)
Model, are needed at each level of change so that educators can collect data relevant for each
stage. Table 1 provides an overview and user-friendly reference of the conceptual framework
that is discussed in detail below.
Precontemplation Stage- People at this stage have financial problems but have no intentions of
changing their behavior or adopting a new practice that could improve their condition. They
often times feel that they cannot change or do not know how to change. They may also feel that
they do not have a problem and therefore there is no reason to change, even if they are being
encouraged by external influences to do so. The literature is clear that at this stage individuals
need to undergo consciousness-raising (Prochaska et.al. 1994) in which they become more
aware of the consequences of their negative financial practices. For example, data can be
shared about the increase in bankruptcies, foreclosures, rental evictions, depleted savings and
other negative results of poor financial choices. Dramatic relief (Prochaska et al 1994) whereby
they experience strong emotional reactions to their financial circumstances, coupled with
environmental reevaluation (Prochaska et al 1994) in which they learn the impact that it has on
those they care about can provoke people to want to change their behavior. For instance, the
educator can share case histories of individuals who have lost a home due to poor financial
management and were now homeless. The effects of homelessness on children can be shared
(e.g. poor academic performance). Explaining the relative advantages of adopting certain
practices/behaviors that can change their financial situation can motivate individuals to change
(Rogers 2003). As an example, the educator can share examples of how previous clients who
were in similar situations turned their lives around such as being able to increase their credit
score which in turn helped them save money on finance charges. The key is to use practical
examples that will have meaning to the target audience in an effort to personalize the potential
benefits.
At this stage of change, rarely will people look for help, seek information or attend educational
activities related to their financial problems (Seiling and Shockey 2006). Therefore, the
information must come to them using mediums and information channels they typically see,
hear and/or utilize. There are a host of educational strategies that can be used at this stage to
raise consciousness, induce dramatic relief and environmental reevaluation, and promote
relative advantages. These include web sites, web blogs, podcasting, email alerts/blasts,
exhibits/displays, fact sheets, newsletters, as well as radio, television, and/or newspaper ads.
Banners, flyers and other social marketing tools can also be used on public transportation or in
popular community locations (e.g. cantinas, barber shops, beauty parlor, bulletin boards at
religious institutions, etc.). For example, social marketing has been used to put health
messages on the side of city buses given that the target audience frequently rides public
transportation. The educator must assess which mode of information is culturally relevant for
his/her target audience (Guion et al. 2005). Regardless of which mode is used, through powerful
messages, the educator must help the individual internalize the need to change, which in the
program development literature is referred to as evoking a felt need among the clientele (Boone,
Safrit & Jones 2002; Boone 1992). The change desired at this stage is more cognitive in that
the goal of the educator is to change the way individuals think and feel about their financial

situation. Given that the individuals are not likely to attend an educational workshop or seminar,
educators must use communication channels that the participants already access.
Evaluations at this stage of change could measure increased awareness of the problems and
negative consequences associated with the undesirable behaviors or practices. Assessing
whether program participants perceive greater benefits in changing behaviors and/or express
increased interest in making changes could also be evaluation indicators that demonstrate they
understand the relative advantage of the changes. Also, other indicators appropriate for this
stage include the amount and type of information distributed (TOP Level1) and the number of
public service announcements delivered, brochures disseminated, or other methods used to
create awareness (TOP Level 2). An example would be the number of traffic/hits on the
educators financial education website or the number of downloads of podcasts. Another
example is the circulation for a newspaper in which the educator placed regular financial
education news articles. Finally, the educator could track the number of people reached with
that information (TOP Level 3).
Contemplation Stage- Persons at this stage of change have acknowledged that they need to
change and are seriously considering changing their behavior, but have not made a
commitment to do so. Often times, this is the information-gathering stage where individuals are
seeking information and help (Seiling and Shockey 2006). Self-reevaluation is important at this
stage (Prochaska et.al. 1994). The individual must be in touch with his/her feelings about the
behavior. Educators can help individuals envision what their life would be like with and without
financial stability. For example, during the financial management classes, educators could help
clients reach a decisional balance of pros outweighing cons in order to move clientele to the
next level wherein they are ready to make the necessary changes. All of this is done to give
individuals a more positive attitude towards beginning the work necessary to change their lives.
Rogers (2003) is clear that complexity must be reduced and compatibility enhanced. Complexity
refers to the degree of difficulty in understanding and implementing the desired behavior or
practice (Rogers 2003). As individuals contemplate making changes, educators can reduce
complexity by increasing individuals knowledge of key financial management concepts through
practical, interactive, experiential education. The financial management workshops could
include examples and testimonials from people who were in similar situations but managed to
overcome their financial problems. This will help individuals understand that making the
necessary changes will be difficult but they can do it too. In essence, up to this point
intrapersonal factors have been addressed namely the individuals knowledge, skill, and attitude.
This is where educators typically stop. Compatibility refers to the degree to which the desired
practices or behaviors fit into the individuals objectives, philosophy and way of life (Rogers
2003). The ecological approach teaches us that interpersonal relationship factors can determine
the level of compatibility. Thus, compatibility can be enhanced by helping individuals identify
family, friends and/or other significant persons in their lives that can help them move from
thinking about changing to actually making the changes. In this case, individuals are identifying
a network of positive influences and support that will be needed as they make the changes.
Measurement at this stage could focus on perceived or actual knowledge gained about a host of
financial management concepts (TOP Level 5). Perceived knowledge could be derived by selfreport evaluation instruments in which the learner tells you whether they felt they gained
knowledge. Actual knowledge gain could be assessed using a pre and post test wherein
learners are asked questions about the content and must provide the correct response. Their
answers are scored and pre and post test scores are compared. Assessment of actual
knowledge gain is suggested as it prevents the halo effect in which participants want to please
the educator because they like her/him. It also prevents participants from providing socially
acceptable responses. An educator could also measure changes in attitudes towards the
management of their finances. Depending upon the focus of the education, evaluations could
focus on attitude change such as the importance of: saving, paying bills on time, developing and
using a budget, paying off credit card balance(s) each month, avoiding impulse purchases, and
other financial principles that were taught during the classes. Also, educators could assess the
extent to which learners feel they have the right information, are confident they can implement
the changes and/or can overcome the difficulties involved with making the changes
(complexity). Lastly, educators could assess whether they feel they have the resources and
support systems necessary to implement the changes (compatibility).

Preparation Stage- At this stage, an individual intends to make the necessary behavioral
changes or adopt the recommended practices. It is clear from decades of research on TTM
theory that individuals at this stage must believe in their ability to make the changes (self
liberation). It is necessary that the educator provides opportunities for the clientele to develop or
enhance skills that gives them the critical competencies needed to make the changes. The
educator should provide opportunities for the program participant to test or try out their skills as
a part of the program (triability). Thus, the participant can be coached on ways by which he/she
can improve or enhance the skill under the supportive guidance of his/her educator. For
example, educators could offer a series of classes that give participants an opportunity to try out
a skill in between the sessions such as creating and living within a budget, tracking spending, or
other skills. An example of another effective educational strategy would be to have program
participants develop what the authors call a personal roadmap to achieving financial wellness.
In this plan of action, guided by educators, individuals will outline the necessary steps that they
can and will take as well as any road blocks or bumps in the road that can be predicted.
Strategies will be developed for addressing those impediments to change. This proactive
problem solving empowers individuals to prepare themselves to affect positive changes in their
lives as they plan for the inevitable challenges that most likely will arise.
Social liberation is also important at this stage (Prochaska et al 1994). It involves constructively
helpful relationships with others who will support the individuals efforts to change. For example,
the educator can identify past program participants who have applied the skills they learned and
changed their financial situation for the better to serve as role models or mentors for current
program participants. This can help individuals gain the confidence to take action in their own
lives.
Evaluation at this stage could focus on the type of new skills that were developed or existing
skills that were improved/enhanced (TOP Level 5). Developing a budget and learning to use
financial management software are two examples of skills that could be measured. A more
exhaustive evaluation could use pre and post skill tests and evaluate the level of mastery of the
skill. This more objective measure of skill attainment and/or improvement would also eliminate
the risk of the halo effect and social acceptable responses from participants.
Action Stage- At this stage, individuals are changing their behavior to better manage their
finances. The TTM literature highlights the importance of individuals having helping
relationships that provide support and encouragement which was discussed in the previous
stage. It is also clear that educators should help individuals replace negative behaviors with
more positive behaviors (counter conditioning). For example, if the individual deals with stress
by shopping then the educator can help him/her identify other coping strategies. The educator
should also provide recognition to individuals for making behavioral changes that can lead to a
brighter financial outlook (positive reinforcement). This could include certificates of completion,
awards, prizes, and the like.
The Diffusion Theory stresses the importance of observabilty which involves the individual
seeing the practice implemented or viewing results of the practice. In addition to using past
program participants as role models and mentors, educators can also have them share real life
stories, and pre and post financial documents if appropriate, to show the brighter financial future
they have as a result of implementing the recommended behaviors/practices.
Also, as promoted in the ecological approach, the educator should work with individuals to
assess any institutional, organizational, cultural, community or policy barriers that impede or
hinder behavior change. If barriers are identified then the educator can assist individuals in
identifying strategies, link indiiduals to other resources, or in some cases, assume an advocacy
role on behalf of individuals.
Evaluations at this stage could measure indicators such as the type and frequency of positive
behaviors that were adopted or negative behaviors that were discontinued (TOP Level 6). For
example, the educator can evaluate the extent to which the client is increasing savings, using a
budget, paying down credit card debt, reducing spending, or a host of other desirable behaviors.
Also, an educator can evaluate whether the individuals are consistently making the
recommended deposits into their savings each month.

Maintenance Stage- The maintenance stage begins after individuals have put the changes into
practice for at least six months. During this stage the educator is trying to help clientele prevent
lapse and relapses. A lapse is an isolated mistake or a temporary slip back into old behaviors
whereas a relapse is a complete setback that is longer term (Watson and Tharp 2006). It is
important that the educator assist clientele in identifying the factor(s) that can trigger or precede
a lapse or relapse (stimulus control). For example, one trigger for some is the gift giving holiday
season because they grossly overspend using credit cards that place them deeper in debt. The
educator must assist clientele in not only identifying the triggers, but also developing strategies
to counter those triggers. One strategy could be the client setting up a holiday savings account
with his/her bank to put aside a small amount of money throughout the year to cover gift giving
expenses.
Also, the educator must provide periodic follow-up and additional support to the participant
during this stage. For instance, the educator could build in an accountability check-up in which
he/she, his/her program assistant and/or the assigned role model/mentor will contact the
individual every three to six months during the first year to see how he/she is maintaining the
desired behaviors and whether additional assistance is needed to avoid lapse or relapse.
Evaluation at this stage could examine consistency and longevity of behaviors that were
adopted, modified or discontinued (TOP Level 6). Also, impact evaluations could measure the
economic impact on the individual program participant and his/her family (TOP Level 7). For
example, the educator could evaluate the increased saving, decreased spending as well as the
dollar value of lowering interest rates, reducing debt or increased credit scores over time.
Table 1. A framework for designing, delivering, and evaluating behavior change focused
educational strategies

Stages of Change

Pre- Contemplation

Moving Clientele from

one Stage of Change
to Next
Consciousness-raising
Dramatic relief
Environmental
reevaluation

How Change is
Adopted

Educational Strategies

Create awareness and

interest Emphasize
relative advantage
Create awareness of
how significant others
might be affected

Exhibits/Displays Radio,
television, and/or
newspaper ad
Fact sheets

Evaluation
Strategies

Measure increased
awareness, interest in
changing, amount and
type of info distributed,
& number reached

Newsletters Web sites

Web blogs Podcasting
Email Alerts/Blasts

Contemplation

Self re-evaluation

Increase knowledge
Reduce complexity
Address compatibility
Change Attitudes

Financial management
classes, workshops,
seminars that includes
examples, testimonials,
program results,
alternatives

Measure perceived or
actual knowledge
gain, attitude and/or
confidence change

Preparation

Self-Liberation Social
liberation

Develop or increase
skills Offer opportunities
for trialability

Financial management
skills training that
include incentives,
mentors &
demonstrations

Measure skills & future

intentions to change
behavior

Action

Reinforcement Helping
relationship
Counterconditioning

Provide support and

incentives Offer
opportunities for
observability

Develop goals and

plans, provide tools,
incentives, support

Measure increased
support and perceived
or actual changes

Maintenance

Stimulus control

Provide follow-up and

support

Accountability check up
& support

Measure long term

impacts

Implications, Limitations, and Significance

The rationale undergirding the Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change (TTM) Theory is that
if educators can determine an individuals stage of change (technique called staging), then
he/she can tailor education to the persons needs at his/her particular point in the change
process. Combining this knowledge of their stage of change with the corresponding processes
that help predict and motivate individual movement across stages, educators will be much more

effective at facilitating behavior change among their clientele. The theory of perceived attributes
component of Diffusions of Innovations (Diffusion) Theory provides insight into how change is
adopted and what promotes adoption. The ecological approach brings in the environmental and
societal factors that can influence an individuals behaviors. Taken together, all of these theories
provide a more comprehensive understanding of behavior change. The conceptual framework
outlined in this paper takes it one step further to incorporate examples of educational change
strategies that relate to each of the processes and adoption promoting concepts at a given
stage of change. Also, using the Targeting Outcomes of Performance (TOP) Model, the types of
evaluation measures that would be most appropriate for the educational change strategies
outlined for each stage of change is also provided. In this way, educators can not only select
educational strategies that are most appropriate for a given stage of change but also determine
the level of evaluation measures to use.
Financial education programs can vary by the setting, audience type, audience size, and the
focus of the subject matter (Fox et al. 2005; Braunstein and Welch 2002). This conceptual
framework can be used for educational programs that occur in any setting and with any type of
audience. Fox et al (2005) further organized three categories of subject matter themes or topical
areas for financial education which include educational programs directed at: 1) improving
financial literacy by broadly addressing personal finance topics; 2) retirement saving and
management; and 3) home buying and home ownership. The theoretical framework presented
here can apply to any subject matter focus areas given that all require clientele to make
behavioral changes/practice adoption to achieve ultimate outcomes.
The framework does have limitations in terms of the size of the audience. Some financial
educators work one-on-one with clientele which is ideal for this framework. It would be relatively
easy to identify the stage of change for a single individual then begin tailoring the educational
strategy as outlined in the framework. However, in the event that educators work with small
groups of individuals all at once, then conducting pre-assessments of readiness to change
becomes more difficult, time consuming, and potentially more costly. One strategy to address
this issue is for conversations (e.g. interviews) to be held with those individuals before the
program is designed in order to assess their readiness for change. In an intentional behavior
change framework such as the one outlined in this paper, this type of information becomes a
critical piece of baseline data. These conversations also provide an opportunity for educators to
learn more about the clientele their program will serve (e.g. learning style preferences,
preferences for locations and time, etc.). It provides an opportunity to assess initial resistance or
barriers to change as well. If interviewing is not feasible, then other data collection
methodologies can be employed such as baseline data assessments using mail or web surveys.
Of course, the methodology chosen must be available and accessible to the target clientele
(Baugh and Guion, 2006). If the educator is working with large groups of individuals all at once,
then another strategy would be to make sure he/she incorporates educational change strategies
for all of the stages of change into his/her program design. Thus, regardless of an individuals
stage of change, the program will contain effective, targeted, research-based strategies that can
help motivate and facilitate behavior change. Also, whether a certain size group is considered
small or large is relative and situational. For example, an educator with a staff of program
assistants may view 20 individuals as a small group given his/her ability to have staff assist with
gathering the baseline information.
Another potential limitation of this conceptual framework is that it is not well suited for
educational programs that occur in one session (e.g. one-day financial education course
consisting of 6 hours). A multi-session program design would be best as it would allow the
participants to practice behaviors, identify negative behavior triggers or barriers to adoption, and
obtain some coaching, feedback and support. A multi-session design may not be feasible for
certain populations such as highly transient individuals. There may also be an issue with attrition
in multi-session programs for certain types of audiences. These are considerations that
educators must address during program design.
In addition, this conceptual framework suggests follow-up after the program to determine if the
behavior has been maintained. As with all follow-up assessments, it is always best to use
personal versus impersonal follow-up techniques and objective evaluation measures of actual
change instead of those that are self reported by participants. Each educator must weigh
different follow-up strategies and evaluation methods to determine what is practical given
his/her resources.

However, in the time of increased accountability for program outcomes and impacts, the
significance of applying a theoretically sound conceptual framework can not be denied. This
conceptual framework allows educators to tailor their prevention and intervention programs to
an individuals readiness or stage of change. It further draws upon other theories to provide
insights and strategies to educators on how to assist individuals in changing negative behaviors
and adopting desired practices. All theories incorporated in this framework have been shown to
increase the likelihood the behavior change and practice adoption will occur. Also embedded in
the conceptual framework are evaluation strategies that educators can utilize to document their
program outputs, outcomes and impacts in various ways.
As with any conceptual framework, there are strengths and weaknesses/limitations. Each
educator must carefully weigh the pros and cons and make program design, delivery and
evaluation decisions based on their target audience and available resources (i.e. time, money,
expertise, collaborators/partners, etc.)
Conclusion
This article presented a research-based conceptual framework for understanding the: 1)
process of behavior change/practice adoption, 2) types of change strategies and educational
interventions that people need at different stages of change, and 3) evaluation indicators that
corresponds to each stage of change. Using this conceptual framework, educators can apply
four leading theories when designing and evaluating their programs. While this article examined
behavior change in the context of financial management education, the conceptual framework
presented can be adapted and applied broadly to entail many other subject areas within family
and consumer sciences as well as other disciplinary fields of study.
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