A culturally responsive evaluation framework and its application in environmental education. (June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Anderson, Kelley C.; Stern, Marc J.; Powell, Robert B.; Dayer, Ashley A.; Archibald, Thomas G.
• Is Part Of: Evaluation and program planning. Volume 92(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-06
• Subjects: EE Environmental education -- CRE Culturally responsive evaluation -- DEI Diversity, equity, and inclusion; Culturally responsive -- Evaluation -- Reflexivity -- Equity -- Environmental education; Health planning -- Periodicals; Medical care -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; 362.1068
• DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2022.102073
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0149-7189

Abstract

Abstract: Despite the many challenges inherent in conducting high-quality evaluations in the field of environmental education (EE), there is a growing recognition of the importance of evaluation, not only to gauge program success, but also to use evaluation results to improve programming, support organizational learning, and ensure programs are meeting the needs of diverse audiences. The challenges to conducting high-quality evaluations are exacerbated by historical issues of inequity and systemic racism that are pervasive in the United States and globally. We reviewed the literature on culturally responsive approaches to evaluation to propose a culturally responsive evaluation framework and consider its application in EE. This framework helps EE organizations and evaluators consider how issues of race, power, privilege, and inequity influence the evaluation process and the validity of evaluation findings. Implementing this framework may be resource-intensive, but it has the potential to improve evaluation processes and produce actionable results to further address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of EE. We call for organizations that support EE efforts to recognize the importance of this approach, and provide adequate resources to encourage its implementation. Highlights: Culturally responsive evaluations call for collaboration and reflexivity. These evaluations attend to social issues of race, power, privilege, and inequity. This framework examines assumptions and values embedded in environmental education. These evaluations support social justice efforts and organizational learning.