Our Approach
Our Approach
To "read the world" is to develop a critical conciousness. Educator and philosopher Paulo Freire spoke of the way in which empowering folks to read the world leads to social transformation, collaboration, and positive change. Read the World Consulting will help you create a culture of critical consciousness around your project, your goals, and your strategy.
We believe in the power of personalized, context-specific approaches to social justice, equity, and education. We rely on the following values to engage our Theory of Change. Led by Dr. Marilyn Preston, our consulting group offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet the unique needs of our clients. Here are some of the ways we can help:
Evaluations: We conduct thorough evaluations to assess the effectiveness and equity of programs and initiatives. Our expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies ensures that our evaluations are robust and insightful.
Key Strengths and Outcomes: Dr. Preston has led several evaluation projects, including equity climate assessments, phenomenological assessments, and emergent designs. As a Community-based Qualitative Methods Consultant for Good Works Group LLC, she designed and implemented a project exploring racial equity in Minnesota’s Post-Secondary Programs. These experiences allow us to offer detailed and actionable evaluation reports that drive meaningful improvements.
Curriculum Design and Review: We specialize in designing and reviewing curricula to ensure they are inclusive, equitable, and aligned with the latest educational standards and best practices.
Key Strengths and Outcomes: Dr. Preston has collaborated on and independently designed curricula across various audiences and intentions. For example, her work at the University of Missouri involved reviewing and revising the Money Matters Curriculum to reflect inclusive and equitable practices. Recently, she collaborated with the Penumbra Theater to co-design a holistic curriculum focused on racial identity development and empowerment for families and their children. Her insights can help your institution create a curriculum that resonates with diverse student populations.
Program Development: We assist in developing programs that promote social justice and equity, from initial concept through to implementation and assessment.
Key Strengths and Outcomes: As the Director of the Family Studies Program at Metropolitan State University, Dr. Preston oversaw the development of coursework that integrated anti-racist teaching and pedagogy, ensuring that programs are not only educational but also transformative.
Subject Matter Expertise: Our team offers subject matter expertise in areas such as educational and health equity, social justice, anti-racist educational pedagogy, and civic engagement.
Key Strengths and Outcomes: Dr. Preston’s extensive publication record, including works on harm reduction pedagogy and equity in education, highlights her deep understanding of complex social issues and her ability to translate that knowledge into practical, impactful guidance.
Pedagogical Consultations: We provide consultations on teaching methods and strategies that foster an inclusive and engaging learning environment.
Key Strengths and Outcomes: Dr. Preston has facilitated numerous DEI trainings and workshops, including sessions for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her experience ensures that your educators are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in diverse classroom settings.
At Read the World Consulting we are committed to empowering change through personalized, context-specific solutions. Let us help you navigate your unique journey toward greater equity and social justice.