Scoping Review of the Core Elements of Technical Assistance Models and Frameworks

Abstract

A review of 25 technical assistance models and frameworks was conducted to identify the core elements of technicalassistance practices. The focus of analysis was on generally agreed upon technical assistance practices that wereconsidered essential for planning, implementing and evaluating the effectiveness of technical assistance. Resultsindicated that there are five major components of technical assistance and 25 different core elements. Analyses of themodels and components found considerable variability within and between components in terms of the core elementsthat are considered most important or essential. Findings were used to define and describe the core elements of thetechnical assistance models and frameworks and how they can be used in research and evaluation studies todetermine if the use of the core elements and practices are related to changes or improvements in program,organizational, or systems practices.