Bridging Multiple Ecologies to Support and Research Learning in Contested Spaces

Abstract

This poster presents a theoretical and methodological framework for studying complex phenomenon and organizing for learning in contested spaces. A contested space challenges assumptions about power, privilege, and possibility. Our early-stage work is designing a family maker space in a minimum-security prison to support STEM pathways for incarcerated women and their children. In order to design for - and research learning - from an equity perspective, multiple “ecologies” are drawn from that we argue are applicable to other contested spaces, further supporting learning for vulnerable and marginalized populations.