Selecting EBIs: Using Contextual Fit to Choose the Right Solution for Your Context

While strength of evidence is necessary, it is not sufficient for identifying solutions that align to local contexts. Contextual fit can be understood as the match between an intervention and the values, needs, population to be served, skills, and resources of those who implement and experience the intervention.[1] Contextual fit can be easily thought of as the fit of the intervention to the local setting, and the capacity of the system to implement it.

Guiding Questions

Guiding questions for exploring contextual fit of an EBI:

Fit: Does the strategy address needs and align to staff skills and competencies?

• Target Population
  • Does the research population reflect the local student population? Consider students’ grade level, special education status, English learner status, for example.
• Identified Need
  • Does the research address the identified need of the students, school, or district being served? Consider the type of academic or behavioral issue, for example, and whether there is strong alignment between the study and the local context.
• Current Initiatives
  • Does the initiative complement the strategic goals of the school or district where the EBI is to be implemented?
  • Does the intervention resonate with stakeholders (e.g., school leaders, teachers, parents)?

 Capacity: Is there leadership support, resources, and necessary time for implementation?

• Capacity
  • Do staff have the necessary skills and knowledge to do this work?
  • Does the district/school have adequate funding to support the intervention sustainably?
• Supports
  • Does the school/district need to seek expert assistance to implement the intervention?
  • What training, coaching, or supervision would increase the likelihood of effective implementation?
  • Does the district/school need data system enhancements to thoughtfully implement the intervention?

The Hexagon Tool

The National Implementation Research Network (NIRN) developed the Hexagon Discussion and Analysis Tool to help organizations evaluate new and existing programs and practices for contextual fit.[2]  Six contextual fit and feasibility factors comprise the tool:

 

The hexagon tool offers a robust approach for thinking through contextual fit considerations and may be helpful as a part of the local Comprehensive Needs Assessment process – particularly in the process of identifying solutions that align with identified challenges.

Resources

• Speaking of Contextual Fit: Training Presentation (Coming Soon!)
• The Hexagon Tool 
• Implementation Science: Formula for Success 

For technical assistance on contextual fit and the Hexagon Tool and, contact:

 

Laura Meushaw
 ESEA Principal Consultant, Title I
720-728-9023
Send an email

Mary Shen
ESEA Research Analyst
303-866-4571
Send an email

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[1] Horner, R., Blitz, C., and Ross (2014). Investing in What Works Issue Brief: The Role of Contextual Fit When Implementing Evidence-Based Interventions. American Institutes for Research (AIR).

[2] The Hexagon: An Exploration Tool. (2019).  Hexagon Discussion & Analysis Tool Instructions. National Implementation Research Network at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. https://nirn.fpg.unc.edu/sites/nirn.fpg.unc.edu/files/imce/documents/NIRN%20Hexagon%20Discussion%20Analysis%20Tool%20v2.2.pdf