An Empirical Experiment of the Theory of Change Game: What Difference Does It Make?

Introduction The Theory of Change (ToC) is a recognized approach in transdisciplinarity to facilitate transformative learning processes. When coupled with a Serious Games (SGs) structure, effective tools for navigating sustainability transitions can be develop. This can be the case for the Theory of Change Game (ToCG) that we use in a particular real-word context. Intervention This study aimed to track the impact of ToCG versus other tools. A workshop was designed with 23 participants to plan the future of Tertúlias do Montado, a long-term initiative focused on the sustainability of the Montado silvo-pastoral system. Method In this experimental setup, participants alternated between the ToCG and two other tools. Discussion content and participant preferences were analyzed, allowing for a comparison between ToCG-based tools and those without ToCG principles. Results Results indicate that the ToCG facilitated an in-depth discussion where the societal problem of Montado’s decline, and the initiative’s primary goal were discussed. In the remaining tools these aspects were taken from granted without reflective examination. Additionally, the circular structure of the ToCG encouraged comprehensive discourse, steering participants away from simplistic or immediate solutions to complex problems. All tools received positive evaluations while the ToCG was particularly noted for introducing a novel concept and enabling visual exploration of diverse perspectives. Some participants, however, found its rules ambiguous and noted monotony after multiple rounds. To the best of our knowledge, this experimental design is new as well as its application in a real-world context. Discussion and Conclusion The distinctiveness of ToCG was evident in the quality of discussions and the resources required for its implementation, especially facilitator training. In contrast, the other tools required minimal preparation and could be applied without specialized facilitation. Therefore, ToCG is particularly valuable in contexts where deep reflection is essential, whereas simpler tools may sufficient in more operational settings.