Community Informatics Studio: A Conceptual Framework

Rhinesmith, Colin; Wolske, Martin

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/54522 Copy

Description

Title

Community Informatics Studio: A Conceptual Framework

Author(s)

• Rhinesmith, Colin
• Wolske, Martin

Issue Date

2014-10

Keyword(s)

community informatics, studio based learning, community engagement, interpretive theory, critical theory

Abstract

This paper extends the theoretical framework underlying the Community Informatics (CI) Studio. CI Studio has been described as the use of studio-based learning (SBL) techniques to support enculturation into the field of CI. The SBL approach, closely related to John Dewey's inquiry-based learning, is rooted in the apprenticeship model of learning in which students study with master designers or artists to develop their craft. In this paper, we explain how the CI Studio is understood a pathway for advancing community-defined development goals through participatory design techniques. In particular, we describe the interpretive and critical theoretical foundations of the CI Studio pedagogy as a venue in which: instructors, students, and community partners can collaborate as co-learners and co-creators of knowledge exploring current topics in community informatics; theory and praxis can be brought together in dialog to ground transformative, liberative action and reflection in community spaces; and diverse perspectives can be embraced to promote a culture of epistemological pluralism. We conclude by introducing our CI Studio Principles (1) for those who wish to use and further develop the CI Studio course and pedagogy, and (2) for those working with communities using technology in support of democracy and social inclusion, so that in dialogue they can work with others to define and work to achieve human flourishing.

Type of Resource

text

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http://hdl.handle.net/2142/54522

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Creative Commons Non-Commercial Sharealike

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