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Evaluation Approach
Our evaluation approach is rooted in the Mi’kmaw teaching of Etuaptmumk, “Two-eyed Seeing”, introduced by Elder Albert Marshall of Eskasoni First Nation. This teaching asks us to take the strengths of both a colonized world and an Indigenous world, and, through both lenses, build greater capacity and success for all. Our approach to evaluation integrates Indigenous knowledge systems with methods drawn from developmental evaluation practices. This dualistic approach to evaluation offers a more inclusive and comprehensive way of thinking about, designing, and conducting research and provides unique contributions to solving important problems.
Our aim is to introduce participatory research methods into our evaluation practice because we understand that the process of gaining knowledge is sacred, and community is the holder and owner of this knowledge and their involvement is fundamental to an evaluation plan that is culturally responsive, relevant, and in the spirit of reciprocity and good relations. Our research and evaluation strategies are in a continual process of refinement, improvement, and learning towards ever better practice.
Building flexibility into the evaluation process to allow for meaningful community involvement.
Community involvement in research and evaluation occurs along a continuum. This continuum ranges from sharing family stories across generations to engaging in consultation, and collaborating at key stages of the project. Designing places and spaces for meaningful community involvement allows for more accurate knowledge production and fits into larger participation efforts.
Defining and learning about the community, from the community's perspective.
Learning about experiences such as living through the Covid-19 pandemic and other aspects of life is critical to conducting respectful research and helps to establish evaluation practices that are culturally sensitive, relevant, and responsive. Prior to the Spring Program, our team facilitated two community gatherings, in February (virtual), and March (hybrid: virtual and in person), and one host gathering (virtual) in early June. Although attendance numbers were low, 31 residents in total, there was no shortage of resident-led conversations and sharing. Through these positive engagement experiences, our team cultivated a deeper understanding of the residents’ connections to the North End and learned about many aspects of North End culture and the generations of families who live there.
–Resident
STOO METZ
Insights and Areas for Growth:
• Giving greater focus on collaborative evaluation planning with residents.
• Creating a suitable approach to team reflection that is capable of meeting evaluation objectives and is flexible enough to accommodate team member’s varying workloads
• Planning for knowledge sharing and community action.
