EPISODE · Apr 7, 2026 · 36 MIN
94. How to Develop an Explanatory Change Theory in Research
from Changemaker Q&A · host Humanitarian Changemakers Network
Skip the HCN Weekly Brief - 3:45.This episode responds to a listener question from a practitioner stepping into academic research and feeling overwhelmed by theory of change, explanatory change theory, and the broader field of social change research. It unpacks the difference between a practical theory of change and a deeper explanatory change theory, explains why research philosophy matters so much when you want to explain why change happens, and introduces critical realism as a powerful framework for researchers trying to move beyond description and engage with causality, ontology, and complex social transformation.📰 Read the accompanying article for this podcast episode here.Join the Changemaker Q&A Community & ASK YOUR QUESTIONS HERE💬 If you find this podcast valuable, it would really help us out to leave a rating & review wherever you're listening.Social Impact Foundations FREE Training Bundle Follow HCN on Instagram @humanitarianchangemakersFollow Tiyana on Instagram: @tiyanajThe views expressed in this podcast are those of Tiyana J & guests and are not reflective of all members of the Humanitarian Changemakers Network.
What this episode covers
Skip the HCN Weekly Brief - 3:45.This episode responds to a listener question from a practitioner stepping into academic research and feeling overwhelmed by theory of change, explanatory change theory, and the broader field of social change research. It unpacks the difference between a practical theory of change and a deeper explanatory change theory, explains why research philosophy matters so much when you want to explain why change happens, and introduces critical realism as a powerful framework for researchers trying to move beyond description and engage with causality, ontology, and complex social transformation.📰 Read the accompanying article for this podcast episode here.Join the Changemaker Q&A Community & ASK YOUR QUESTIONS HERE💬 If you find this podcast valuable, it would really help us out to leave a rating & review wherever you're listening.Social Impact Foundations FREE Training Bundle Follow HCN on Instagram @humanitarianchangemakersFollow Tiyana on Instagram: @tiyanajThe views expressed in this podcast are those of Tiyana J & guests and are not reflective of all members of the Humanitarian Changemakers Network.
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94. How to Develop an Explanatory Change Theory in Research
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