Section outline

  • DESCRIPTION: This module introduces evaluation in environmental education and the core values we should consider as we undertake our own evaluations.  

    OBJECTIVES:

    After completing this module, you should be able to:

    • Identify your reasons for engaging in evaluation.
    • Define program evaluation.
    • Identify the core values for environmental education evaluation.
    • Evaluate strengths and weaknesses in application of the core values in EE evaluation.


    BENCHMARK ASSESSMENT:

    ESTIMATED MODULE LENGTH: 1 hour

    Module 1 Tasks


    • Students must
      Mark as done
      Review Current Evaluation Practices

      We regularly engage in evaluation, both formally and informally.  In the following tasks, you will think about the ways in which you currently engage in evaluation.

      TASK 1:  Access the Collective Outcomes evaluation Course Journal. 

      You will need to either Make a Copy of this file and edit it as your own Google Doc or download it as a Microsoft Word document. Click File, Make a Copy or Download. You will record responses to prompts and complete tasks in your own version of the Course Journal throughout this course. At the end of each module, you will submit your Course Journal with the relevant sections completed. 

      TASK 2: Watch the following video of evaluator Kathayoon Khalil discussing the skills you need to be a great evaluator.

      Record your responses to the following questions in your course journal:

      • How would you define the term evaluation?
      • Why are you interested in evaluation at this time? 
      • What are you hoping to learn about eeEvaluation in this course?  Record 3-7 questions that you have.
      • How are you currently engaged in evaluation?
      • Describe your strengths and what you would like to improve in your evaluation practice in 1-2 paragraphs.


      TASK 3:        Read page 2 of the Collective Outcomes Module 1 Toolkit.  Answer the following questions in your Course Journal:

      • Compare the definition of evaluation in the toolkit to the definition you recorded in Task 2.  Record any similarities or differences.
      • Which of the reasons for evaluation listed on page 2 of the toolkit resonate with you and the needs of your organization and why?  

    • Students must
      Mark as done

      Core Values of eeEvaluation

      NAAEE developed a set of core values to guide evaluation in environmental education based on the collective wisdom of EE researchers, practitioners, policymakers, funders and evaluators. These core values help define the relationship between effective program evaluation and environmental education, in order to conduct high-quality program evaluation that contributes to healthier communities and equitable outcomes.  We will be coming back to these core values throughout the course.


      TASK 4:  Watch the following video describing the core values of eeEvaluation and then read the descriptions of each of the values on page 3 of toolkit.

      In your course journal, describe how you currently practice each value.  Include your strengths as well as areas for improvement.

      Collective Evaluation:

      Equity in Motion:

      Authentic Engagement:

      Deep Curiosity:

      Lifelong Learning and Critical Reflection:

      High-Quality Evaluation:


    • Submit Module 1 Course Journal Assignment
      Opened: Tuesday, 3 January 2023, 2:00 AM
      Students must
      Mark as done

      Submit your completed Module 1 Course Journal.

      • View scoring guide>>
      • You may upload a Word document or submit a link to a Google Doc. If you submit a link to a Google Doc, adjust the sharing settings so that it can be viewed by anyone with the link. Click the blue Share button in the top right. A new box will open, under Get Link, select 'Anyone with the link'.