Community-Driven Design Research: A Critical Methodological Approach

• In Event: Participatory and Community-Driven Design in Research on Learning

Abstract

In response to the persistent disparities and inequities in STEM education, scholars have called for equity-oriented, community-centered approaches to STEM-related research and design (Bevan, Calabrese Barton, & Garibay, 2018). In response to this need, we explore a community-driven design research approach, a collaborative research process in which Indigenous partners maintain sovereignty. As a team of Indigenous and non-Indigenous educators, researchers, and designers, we present in this paper the initial phases of our community-driven approach to developing an apprenticeship program to develop Native youths’ design, technology, and storytelling skills. Findings offer insights to effective strategies to engage community-driven design as a critical methodological approach to work with Indigenous communities, especially as a team of Indigenous and non-Indigenous members.

Authors

• Breanne K. Litts, Utah State University

• Megan Marie Hamilton, Utah State University

• Patty Timbimboo-Madsen, Northwestern Band of Shoshone Nation

• Rios Pacheco

• Adam Sherlock, Spy Hop Productions

• Kenden Quayle, Utah State University