Community-Centered Libraries: In-person Workshops
Practical Data Equity
Instructor: Heather Krause, Founder, We All Count
Participants learned the core issues facing the equitable and ethical use of quantitative data and gained an understanding of the challenging landscape of turning complex human questions into numbers and then back into meaning (without harming people in the process!)
Practical and concrete examples explored:
- The compelling case for why data projects are not objective (and why that’s a good thing!);
- How the kinds of choice points we face when using quantitative data give us the opportunity to embed equity in our work;
- Why we all need a cohesive system for identifying and addressing equity issues in data,
- An introduction to a practical, concrete approach to this crucial issue: The Data Equity Framework.
A summary document with key concepts and talking points, useful for discussing data equity with colleagues, clients, bosses, boards, and policymakers was provided to all participants.
Culturally Competent Participatory Evaluation: Bridging Perspectives for Inclusive Insights
Instructors: Dr. Andrea Girón Mathern, Founder, and Alia Gant, Evaluation & Research Associate, Centrality Research
This session was designed to equip participants with the essential skills to conduct participatory evaluations through a culturally inclusive lens. In today’s diverse and interconnected world, understanding the intersection of culture, context, and evaluation methodologies is paramount for ensuring equitable and meaningful outcomes.
Instructors detailed the core principles and practices of participatory evaluation, emphasizing the integration of cultural competency throughout the evaluation process. Participants explored strategies for engaging diverse stakeholders, including marginalized communities, in evaluation design, data collection, analysis, and utilization. Through interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises, attendees learned how to navigate cultural nuances, address power dynamics, and foster inclusive evaluation environments.
Key topics included:
- Understanding Participatory Evaluation
- Culturally Competent Evaluation Frameworks
- Engaging Diverse Stakeholders
- Collecting Culturally Relevant Data
- Analyzing and Interpreting Data Within Its Cultural Context
- Utilizing Culturally Responsive Findings
- Addressing Ethical Considerations