Workshop Description

Like traditional wayfinders who navigated vast oceans, evaluators too embark on voyages of discovery—journeying beyond the known, discerning both the fine detail and the broader landscape. Wayfinding in evaluation calls for deep awareness of ourselves, our crew, our waka, and the environments we navigate. It requires us to hold steady in uncertain waters, develop sharper observation, and embrace not just rational thinking, but also the collective wisdom, relational intelligence, and cultural knowledge we carry (Spiller, Barclay-Kerr & Panoho, 2015).

Wayfinding is not only about reaching a destination—it is about how we travel. As evaluators, we are tasked with walking alongside Indigenous communities, guided by principles of respect, reciprocity, and shared purpose. The tools and approaches explored in this workshop are designed to support you in this journey, offering practical methods grounded in Indigenous knowledge and relationships. Together, we will reflect on how we navigate values, share power, and contribute to a future that is collectively imagined and created.

What You’ll Learn

• How to reflect on your values and assumptions using practical self-assessment tools.
• A framework for understanding and shifting power dynamics in evaluation with Indigenous peoples.
• Three facilitation and data collection methods that centre Indigenous perspectives:
• Culturally Referenced Photo Sort
• Bilingual Word Sort
• Using Traditional Sayings

Who Should Attend

• Researchers, evaluators, and practitioners working with Indigenous communities.
• Those new to Indigenous engagement as well as experienced practitioners seeking to deepen their practice.

Why Attend

• Gain practical tools you can use immediately.
• Strengthen your ability to work respectfully and effectively with Indigenous peoples.
• Contribute to more equitable and meaningful evaluation practice with Indigenous peoples.

Workshop Description