1032 - Facilitation Matters: Foundational Techniques for Evaluators

Abstract Information: At times, evaluation can be overwhelming. What data should we collect? (Program leaders might ask themselves). Now that we have data, what do we do with it? (Another might ask). Embedding time for reflection and conversation is key to forging the link between doing an evaluation and using an evaluation. In this session Dr. Rachel Scott from the Center for Research Evaluation at the University of Mississippi will share a set of facilitation protocols designed to help social programs collect data, interpret data, and contemplate how to use data to make positive change. Session attendees will actively participate in a series of facilitation protocols and leave with new tools to encourage storytelling and dialogue and to help collect and use data.

Relevance Statement: As evaluators we are called to “act with urgency to help transform the systems, policies, and practice that have created today’s challenges, and help build toward a more equitable, sustainable future” (AEA Evaluation 2022). However, sometimes we can be left wondering how to start this process. With so many voices that need to be heard, how can we be mindful to intentionally value and respect diverse perspectives in doing the work of evaluation? How do we encourage stakeholders to become active participants in evaluation? This professional development session seeks to answer those questions by growing evaluator competency in facilitation techniques. In this session, the presenter will explore the "why" behind use of facilitation in evaluation and share a set of facilitation protocols designed to help evaluators and organizations collect data, interpret data, and contemplate how to use data to make positive change. Session attendees will actively participate in a series of facilitation protocols and leave with new tools to encourage dialogue and collect and use data. This workshop directly connects to Domain 5 (Interpersonal) of the AEA Evaluator Competencies and will provide an opportunity for evaluators of all backgrounds and levels of experience to develop and enhance competencies to include: 5.1 Fosters positive relationships for professional practice and evaluation use; 5.2 Listens to understand and engage different perspectives; 5.3 Facilitates shared decision making for evaluation; 5.4 Builds trust throughout the evaluation; 5.5 Attends to the ways power and privilege affect evaluation practice; 5.6 Communicates in meaningful ways that enhance the effectiveness of the evaluation; 5.7 Facilitates constructive and culturally responsive interaction throughout the evaluation; and, 5.8 Manages conflicts constructively.