Evidence Based Practices

Evidence-Based Practice

Evidence-based practice is paramount for the cultivation of cultural responsiveness as it furnishes a systematic and credible framework for comprehending, evaluating, and implementing strategies that have demonstrated efficacy across diverse cultural contexts. At the core of this importance lies the establishment of credibility and trust. Interventions grounded in rigorous research and proven outcomes are more likely to be embraced and trusted by individuals from various cultural backgrounds. Moreover, evidence-based practices play a pivotal role in tailoring interventions to meet the specific needs and values of different cultural groups, forming a foundation that can be adeptly adapted to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

An additional imperative is the avoidance of stereotypes and assumptions. By encouraging a data-driven and objective approach, evidence-based practice helps steer clear of reliance on preconceived notions about particular cultural groups. This approach fosters a more accurate understanding of the multifaceted nuances and diversity inherent within cultures. Finally, in a landscape where resources are often constrained, evidence-based practices contribute to efficiency and optimal resource allocation. By guiding the selection of interventions more likely to yield positive outcomes, evidence-based practice becomes an indispensable tool for organizations and individuals seeking to foster cultural responsiveness in a meaningful and impactful manner.

Also highlighted by Fraise & Brooks, (2015), historically, evidence-based practices have developed within the vacuum of a homogeneous research population.  Historically, educational practices do not explore the concepts deeply enough to construct alternative approaches that would be more effective with systematically marginalized individuals.

If the evidence-based practices are not appropriately constructed to meet the needs of systematically marginalized and racialized people, then in many cases, it will likely fail.  In other words, a plane cannot fly without an engine. This is why cultural responsiveness is so important.  And to revisit the metaphor, it is likely that the plane will not fly without the presence of a technician bringing available techniques, tools, and time.