Equity and Inclusion in and through Evaluation

Abstract

Evaluation can both use equitable and inclusive methodologies and support equitable and inclusive practice in STEM communication. As equity and inclusion has been forefronted in science communication, so too have content producers, researchers and evaluators increasingly prioritised this in research and evaluation. This has led to new methods and considerations, such as co-producing evaluation and greater thought of research ethics and power dynamics. This session will feature case studies from projects which have used equitable and inclusive research methods to evaluate and create STEM content. Speakers will highlight successes, challenges and lessons learned to provide new examples and discussion points on this innovative area of practice. Speakers will also reflect on the benefits of prioritising inclusive and equitable evaluation and how we can use the learnings of this work to understand the needs of diverse audiences, make evidence-based decisions and create meaningful content.