MAKER: Identifying practices of inclusion in maker and hacker spaces with diverse participation

Abstract

Some have hailed the emergence of maker spaces as an opportunity to broaden participation of underrepresented groups in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education, engaging participants in open, creative, and supportive spaces for learning and applying practical STEM knowledge. Others have questioned the potential of these spaces, as many maker and hacker spaces seem to be enacting norms that are more conducive to participation of white, male, middle-class, able-bodied hobbyists. So while there are maker spaces noted for their engagement of homeless makers, women, people of color, veterans, LGBTQ+ folks and people with disabilities, there are many more maker spaces that intentionally or unintentionally exclude these populations. This project considers how diverse maker spaces are conceived, constructed and operated to actively involve groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM, and collectively identify practices that can inform the design and operation of campus and community maker or hacker spaces that presently struggle to achieve diversity. In 2018, we report an update on the project's data collection and the June 2018 unconference where we will bring all our partners together.