The Privilege of Low Pay: Informal Educators' Perspectives on Workforce Equity and Diversity (Poster 13)

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session 9
  In Poster Session: Informal Learning Environments Research SIG Poster Session

Abstract

Despite attempts to diversify the informal science education workforce, institutions like museums, zoos, and aquariums continue to be places of privilege where few can afford to make education a life-long career. Through a nationwide survey and selective interviews, this study examined informal science educators’ (n = 132) perspectives on workforce equity, diversity, and professionalization. Results show that 59% of informal science educators surveyed were considering academic or career changes, citing workplace practices and cultures that perpetuate overwork and underpay and that have contributed to the marginalization of educators who have been historically excluded from the field. Our goal is to amplify educators’ voices and encourage reflection on the structures that prevent goals of equity and diversity from being holistically achieved.

Authors

• Kieren Rende Mendoza, University of Nebraska - Omaha

• M. Gail Jones, North Carolina State University

• Megan Ennes, University of Florida