ScalentricCNA for Immunization Decision-Making

Module 8 ยท How do you build a conceptual framework?

Draw your assumptions before the data argues back

By the end of this module you will be able to
  • Explain what a conceptual framework is and why to draw one first.
  • Translate a program belief into a simple causal diagram.
  • Use the framework as a yardstick for later results.

A conceptual framework is just a picture of what you think causes what. Drawing it forces you to be honest about your assumptions, and it gives you something to hold your CNA results up against later. Here are two chains an immunization team might sketch for low coverage:

Weak supervision Weak planning Low coverage No mobilisation Low demand Low coverage

Two candidate chains for low coverage. CNA will later tell you which links the data actually support, and it may surprise you, which is half the fun.

Reflect

Draw your own causal picture for one outcome.

  • Which arrows are you most confident about, and which are guesses?
  • If the data later contradicts an arrow, would you trust the data or your prior belief?