Chapter 7: How Do We Begin? Practices and Tools for Examining Evaluator Positionality, Assumptions, and Bias

Data always comes from a perspective. Whether explicitly stated, the assumptions that underpin decisions made throughout an evaluation can have outsized impact on both the course of work and conclusions drawn. Failure to regularly state and check assumptions can create blind spots and lead to faulty decision-making during an evaluation, especially when assumptions are driven by biases and stereotypes that lie beneath the surface. This chapter outlines tools and approaches to surfacing, engaging with, and challenging assumptions when designing and conducting an evaluation. It argues that evaluators must both (1) take the time to examine the lens and positionality they bring to their work, and (2) deepen their examination of context, systems, and prevailing structures of power, with greater contextual and historical understanding from the perspectives of marginalized people. The tools and approaches described in this chapter speak to practices at the individual and team levels. The chapter concludes with practice lessons around what it takes to create conditions for this work to happen.