Abstract
BackgroundEngaging in regular physical activity requires continued complex decision-making in varied and dynamic individual, social and structural contexts. Widespread shortfalls of physical activity interventions suggests the complex underlying mechanisms of change are not yet fully understood. More insightful process evaluations are needed to design and implement more effective approaches. This paper describes the protocol for a process evaluation of the JU:MP programme, a whole systems approach to increasing physical activity in children and young people aged 5–14 years in North Bradford, UK.MethodsThis process evaluation, underpinned by realist philosophy, aims to understand the development and implementation of the JU:MP programme and the mechanisms by which JU:MP influences physical activity in children and young people. It also aims to explore behaviour change across wider policy, strategy and neighbourhood systems. A mixed method data collection approach will include semi-structured interview, observation, documentary analysis, surveys, and participatory evaluation methods including reflections and ripple effect mapping.DiscussionThis protocol offers an innovative approach on the use of process evaluation feeding into an iterative programme intended to generate evidence-based practice and deliver practice-based evidence. This paper advances knowledge regarding the development of process evaluations for evaluating systems interventions, and emphasises the importance of process evaluation.
Highlights
Engaging in regular physical activity requires continued complex decision-making in varied and dynamic individual, social and structural contexts
This paper outlines the protocol for a process evaluation of JU:MP, the Bradford Local Delivery Pilot (LDP), a whole systems programme for increasing Physical activity (PA) in children and young people aged 5–14
The aim of the process evaluation is to understand the mechanisms through which JU:MP influences PA, and to examine behaviour change across the wider policy and strategy and neighbourhood systems
Summary
This paper focuses on the process evaluation of the JU:MP programme approach. The process evaluation will be conducted alongside a complementary effectiveness evaluation and findings from across the broader evaluation will be integrated to advance knowledge production [31]. Objectives and approach The overarching aim of the process evaluation is to understand the programme implementation and the mechanisms through which JU:MP influences behaviour change across the neighbourhood, and wider policy and strategy systems that it is seeking to influence. Data collection methods include surveys, semi-structured interviews, participant observations, and reflections, which will all be implemented at multiple time points throughout programme delivery; see “Process evaluation data collection methods” for further detail. Semi‐structured interviews Semi-structured interviews provide an opportunity for in-depth reflection on the design and delivery of JU:MP, including documenting and reflecting on progress, activity, decisions, perceptions, and challenges [51] Understanding these processes is important for evaluation, as it helps us to understand the factors influencing whether or not the programme is successful in achieving its outcomes. These changes will be captured in the ongoing evaluation as part of workshop notes and interviews, completing the cycle
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