Educational Technologists Talk About the Politics of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusivity in Design and Development

• In Event: Understand Learning With Technology

Abstract

The growing number of technologies being developed to support computer science pedagogies in primary and secondary schools is coupled with the recognition that the gender and racial demographics of CS are relatively homogenous. While numerous initiatives use programmable hardware and software to help address issues of equity, diversity, and inclusivity in broadening participation efforts, little attention has been paid to how educational technologists consider such issues in design and development. Through interviews with technologists who contribute to CS education, we explore how the politics of equity, diversity, and inclusivity are addressed and perceived as part of design and development processes. We find that many technologists have porous articulations of these concepts, often referencing “neutrality” as a normative quality in their work.

Authors

• Michael L Lachney, Michigan State University

• Swati Mehta, Michigan State University

• Kyle Dunbar, Michigan State University

• Zac Opps, Michigan State University