Evaluation is collaborative, formative, generative.
As a researcher, Liz collaborates closely with participants; co-constructing research questions, data collection methods, and meanings.
Liz conducted generative research on small school reform at the National Center for Restructuring Education, Schools & Teaching at Teachers College, Columbia University. With the Gates-funded Institute for Student Achievement project, Liz documented the reform process as big New York high schools shifted into small learning communities. She interviewed, observed and collected artifacts with teachers, principals, youth, and families in the Bronx, Brooklyn, East Harlem, Chelsea, & Peekskill. Everything Liz collected went into generative reports school teams used for reflection and multi-year planning. This meant Liz highlighted what was working and present, so the team could build on and beyond promising practices they were already implementing. Liz posed critical questions to generate team-thinking toward community-based solutions. Change happens when everyone is part of the process.