From ideas to implementation: Sharing experiences from projects applying culturally responsive evaluation.

Abstract Information: This interactive multipaper session will provide multiple perspectives on applying culturally responsive evaluation (CRE) practices to prioritize diverse perspectives in our work. We will share real world examples from four projects incorporating CRE into practice in different ways and lessons learned through this process. Key examples shared will shared from four projects.

STEM Learning Ecosystems engaged project teams throughout the inquiry process for our front-end research study. We explored three topic areas through a non-linear process, which enabled us to respond to project teams’ feedback and incorporate their input throughout the process (e.g., reviewing literature, developing instruments, analysis and sharing findings).

Learning Ecosystems Northeast (LENE) works closely with informal educators, science center coordinators, classroom teachers, and librarians in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York to share resources and co-develop new resources that engage learners with climate-focused activities. LENE works with community organizations and other partners to center cultural and community knowledge and center equity in the co-design and partnerships that it creates.

The Arctic & Earth STEM Integrating GLOBE and NASA (SIGNs) project uses an Indigenous learning cycle process that centers Indigenous knowledge to help communities develop projects that use GLOBE protocols to adapt locally to climate change. To evaluate the project, the Goldstream Group (the Artic & Earth SIGNs evaluation team) uses a variety of responsive strategies, such as iteratively refining data collection, analysis, and deliverables in dialogue with Indigenous and other expert project collaborators.

NASA’s Neurodiversity Network (N3) works to make NASA resources and career paths more accessible to neurodiverse youth. The N3 evaluation team has engaged neurodiverse youth throughout the evaluation to provide feedback and suggest revisions to evaluation data collection methods, instruments, and processes.
In addition to sharing practical examples, we will frame discussion using theoretical frameworks for CRE practices. Attendees will actively participate in small group discussions to explore specific aspects around utilizing CRE; sharing work you are doing; and/or challenges you have encountered around implementing CRE in your work.