Community Partnership Collaborative Design of a Maker Camp for Underserved Rural Youth

• In Event: Community-Centered Approach to Out-of-School-Time Research

Abstract

This paper describes the collaborative design of a free Out-of-School Time (OST) summer maker camp aimed at low-income, at-risk middle school youth in a rural, tourism-oriented community. The camp was developed through a community partnership involving a camp provider, local organizations, the school district, and researchers. Informed by a career readiness model, the camp focused on enhancing STEM interest, relevance, and identity for youth in the community. We examine design tensions between partners, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that emerged when balancing the needs of each partner with the overall program goals. We also share findings on how camp activities, focused on 3D modeling and printing, influenced the development of youths’ STEM identities and their awareness of future STEM opportunities.

Authors

• Srinjita Bhaduri, University of Colorado - Boulder

• Quentin Biddy, University of Colorado - Boulder

• Melissa Rummel, University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR)

• Mimi M. Recker, Utah State University