The eeVAL values: a co‑created, values‑led framework for more equitable environmental education evaluation

The environmental education evaluation (eeVAL) project is a decade-long, North American-based initiative building capacity for more equitable evaluation in environmental education, seeking systems change in the field. The heart of eeVAL, are six values—Equity in Motion, Authentic Engagement, Deep Curiosity, Ongoing Journey, Quality Redefined, and Shared Learning. This paper introduces and describes the six eeVAL values that can guide evaluative endeavors in environmental education. We outline the co-creation of these values, detailing why, how, and with whom the values were created. We present the values in action, giving examples of how they guided the eeVAL project across scale and time. Our assertion is that all evaluation is guided by values. With this paper, we highlight how intentional commitment to shared and aspirational values can guide evaluation in environmental education toward more equitable partnerships, programs, and communities.