Values Engagement and Valuing without Value “Judgements”?

Abstract Information: Values and valuing are a defining element of evaluation theory and practice. The American Evaluation Associate defines evaluation as a “systematic process to determine merit, worth, value or significance.” And yet, for many reasons, evaluators often struggle to facilitate values engagement and provide value judgments. The intent of this session will be to identify constructive processes for values engagement, consider alternative language to value “judgments,” and reframe the role of valuing in evaluation practice.

We will explore and discuss the role of valuing in the evaluation profession, focusing on valuing in evaluation practice. We will root our discussion in existing theories of valuing, value judgment, and values engagement and explore the successes and challenges encountered in evaluation practice. In group discussions, we will explore questions, such as:

How do you explain evaluation to others? To what extent and in what ways is valuing, value judgments, and/or values engagement a central part of your understanding of evaluation? Of your evaluation practice?

Consider successful evaluation projects you have been a part of—supported transformational societal change; addressed social inequities; ensured quality program; partners used evaluation process and findings appropriately; or some other indicator of a successful evaluation. What role did valuing have in this project? Describe your evaluation process.

What facilitates your engagement in valuing?

What barriers prevent you from engaging in valuing?

Networking among participants during the session will hopefully be an opportunity to support one another in professional practice through the development of a future learning community and/or collaboration on future publications. We will also explore theoretical approaches within the field to address the challenges of valuing, such as values engagement, mindfulness, standpoint theories, and culturally responsive evaluation with explicit values that incites change.