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Supporting Rightful Presence in Museum Spaces: Youth as Participatory Designers of Indigenous Mixed Reality Science Exhibits

This project addresses the ongoing marginalization of Indigenous communities in informal science learning spaces by developing and studying a model that strengthens rightful presence, a justice-centered framework that promotes a greater sense of belonging and shift in institutional power. Ohlone youth and families engage in participatory co-design to create immersive Indigenous science exhibits using mixed reality technologies that will be installed at the Lawrence Hall of Science, UC Berkeley’s public science center. The research employs participatory design-based methodologies to investigate outcomes of youth participation in the design of mixed reality exhibits; the development of a participatory design model that centers Indigenous Science; and ways to support informal science educators to center Indigenous Science. The research seeks to understand how youth develop a sense of belonging, science identity, and interest in STEM careers through their participation and how these aspects amplify their rightful presence in science spaces. The research is guided by an Ohlone Research Advisory Committee and will analyze data from interviews, focus groups, observations, and design products. The tappenekšekma: Ohlone Science Diplomats program involves Ohlone youth and adult family members, who have met for a kickoff event and three design workshops thus far in year 1. An early insight is the importance of a family-based learning environment that centers Ohlone knowledge and values.

Pillar 1: Innovative Use of Technologies in Learning and Teaching

The project features mixed reality (MR) technology which combines physical and virtual elements, enabling interaction with real-world and virtual objects. It can reveal hidden histories and alternative narratives, making it a unique platform for sharing cultural heritage, especially Indigenous knowledge. Therefore MR also offers opportunities for Ohlone youth to build STEM knowledge grounded in their cultural identity, supporting their rightful presence.

Pillar 2: Partnerships for Career and Workforce Preparation.

A collaboration between The Lawrence Hall of Science, UC Berkeley’s School of Information, and mak-’amham/Cafe Ohlone, an Ohlone cultural organization, this work is part of a UC Berkeley effort called the 'ottoy initiative, led by Vincent Medina and Louis Trevino, co-founders of mak-'amham/Cafe Ohlone, which aims to foster understanding of and respect for Ohlone people and culture and to repair and improve the university’s relationship with the Ohlone community. The project is driven by the Ohlone community.

Pillar 3: Strategies for Equity in STEM Education

By centering Indigenous perspectives in STEM learning experiences and highlighting connections between Indigenous cultural identities and contemporary STEM career pathways, the project aims to reframe STEM learning to increase Indigenous youth’s rightful presence in STEM learning spaces, with the potential to lead to a more diverse STEM workforce. The program name “tappenekšekma” means both teacher and learner, reflective of youths’ role as designers which positions them as skilled and knowledgeable learners.
Logo for the tappenekšekma: Ohlone Science Diplomats Program
Discipline(s)
Interdisciplinary
Target Gradespan(s)
Other
Target Participant(s)
American Indian/Alaska Native participants
Project Setting(s)
Informal Education
Category
Developing and Testing Innovations (DTI)
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