Transformative Mixed Methods Applications to Increase Equity

Session Description: Evaluators use different philosophical lenses to guide their methodological decisions. The transformative paradigm is a philosophical lens that consciously addresses systemic discrimination that serves as a barrier to transformative change. The methodological implications of the transformative paradigm’s assumptions will be explained and illustrated with examples that demonstrate how evaluators can contribute to a more just world.  The central focus of this presentation is to provide insights into how we can apply a transformative lens in evaluations that include diverse voices in ways that address power inequities and values community-based knowledge to support transformative change.

Speaker Bio: Donna Mertens, Professor Emeritus at Gallaudet University, specializes in transformative research and evaluation methodologies that support social, economic, and environmental justice, seen in her publications: Mixed Methods Research, Program Evaluation Theory and Practice (3rd ed.); Mixed Methods Design in Evaluation; and Research and Evaluation in Education and Psychology(6^th ed.). She consults with many international organizations such as U.N. International Fund for Agricultural Development and UN Women. Mertens served as the editor of the Journal of Mixed Methods Research, President of the American Evaluation Association (1998), and founding Board member: International Organization for Cooperation in Evaluation and Mixed Methods International Research Association.