ASTC 2023 Annual Conference

How Inclusive is your Space, Really? poster   1.47 MB   1 version
Uploaded - 11-09-2023
This image is a poster presentation titled "How Inclusive is your Space, Really? LGBTQ+ Experiences in Informal STEM Learning Environments" by Dr. Jen Tuttle Parsons, with a website link provided. The poster is structured into several sections, each with its own heading and content. At the top left corner, the "Background" section states that informal STEM education spaces and museums strive to improve accessibility and inclusion, and lists barriers to participation. It mentions the desire to broaden STEM participation and asks for whom and how. Below the background, "The Study" section has two parts: "Framework" which lists "Queer feminist lens" and "Research Questions" which include inquiries about how informal STEM learning environments welcome the LGBTQ+ community and the impact of systemic power structures on inclusive practices. Next to this is the "Methods" section, describing the research as a collaborative transformative study, utilizing qualitative case studies, purposive sampling, on-site visits, exhibit documentation, and more. To the right of the background, "Themes" are listed, touching on subjects such as science being queer but not always celebrated, the non-negotiable nature of disability accessibility, the superficial implementation of DEAI (Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion), and the colonization of museums and informal STEM education areas. It mentions the importance of data in addressing problems of exclusion. In the center right, the "Take-aways" section provides insights like the significance of small signs of representation, the actions institutions can take, and the role of individuals and communities as agents of change. To the far right, there's a column titled "Quotes" containing three quoted opinions emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and the shortcomings of current practices in recognizing and addressing LGBTQ+ representation. Below the take-aways, there is a visual representation of "Operationalizing Dawson's (2014) Access and Equity Framework" in informal STEM education, highlighting infrastructure access, literacies, and community acceptance. A QR code for an "Exhibit Audit" and references for further reading are included. The lower right section contains a circular diagram labeled "Policy Audit Themes" divided into multiple colored segments, each representing a different theme uncovered in the policy audit. The entire poster uses a color scheme of teal, orange, yellow, and gray, and includes several graphical elements such as a pie chart, icons representing different themes, and a QR code for additional information.