ChallengeI was tasked with building a network that could address the many facets in the research and practice, ensuring that all participants felt supported and empowered in their pursuit of equity-centered maker education.
Janos’ primary challenge was to establish a framework for an in-person sequence of events that could effectively connect educators, researchers, and community members in the Boston area to foster collaboration in maker-centered learning and equity research. Given the participants' diverse interests, backgrounds, and research areas, ensuring that the project addressed the needs of all groups—especially those currently underserved—was a key concern. Additionally, creating safe and inclusive spaces for dialogue, resource sharing, and collaboration posed a challenge, as it required navigating the complex dynamics of power, access, and equity in making spaces.
ProcessThe heart of this initiative was fostering an environment where trust and solidarity could thrive, allowing participants to share their insights and resources to promote equity through creative inquiry.
To address these challenges, Janos developed a series of meetings within collaborative spaces around the Boston area, drawing on the existing structure of the CRAFT Network. The process involved bringing together a diverse group of educators, researchers, and community leaders to discuss the intersection of maker-centered learning and equity. Key activities included identifying shared research questions, exploring partnership opportunities, and co-designing approaches to address the educational needs of underserved communities. Participants shared data, methodologies, and resources throughout the process to strengthen their collective impact.
SolutionBy building local connections and offering spaces for collective dialogue, we created a system where participants could act on shared goals and sustain their efforts in promoting equity in making.
Janos’ solution was to create a robust, local network that fostered collaboration and prioritized the development of equitable practices in maker-centered learning. This was achieved by structuring regular thematic meetings that allowed for sharing knowledge and best practices while identifying and addressing barriers to participation in making spaces. A key focus was developing the infrastructure that would allow for sustainable partnerships between community organizations, research institutions, and makerspaces to support long-term equity-driven research and learning.
learningsThe key learning was that a real, sustainable maker space ecosystem is built on maintaining a consistent perfect balance of continuous, active participation of all stakeholders. This ensured a shared commitment to establishing connectivity, dismantling barriers, and fostering inclusivity.
Through this project, we learned that deep collaboration requires consistent engagement and a commitment to addressing inequities as they arise. Building trust among diverse stakeholders and continuously identifying the community's evolving needs proved essential. One of the key takeaways was that fostering equity in maker-centered learning is an ongoing process of reflection, adaptation, and open dialogue.