The Equity Compass: Approaching Equity in STEM

Image Credit:  https://yestem.org/tools/the-equity-compass/

​One of the best professional development experiences I had this summer was taking part in an online course called, Equity in Informal STEM Learning: Using the Equity Compass created by University College London.   The Equity Compass is powerful framework for assessing informal STEM learning such as after school clubs, summer camps and programs at museums.

​I really appreciated the distinction they made between Equality described as “treating people in the same way, making sure people get the same opportunity” versus Equity described as “factoring in people’s different needs and assets, understanding that people might need different opportunities and support.”  The Equity Compass focuses on four main parts:  challenging the status quo, working with and valuing minoritized communities, embedding equity and extending equity. As participants of the course, we were introduced to each part of the framework and then presented with case studies to analyze that represented STEM Experiences that were lacking in terms of equity and diversity.  We were also challenged to come up with solutions for each of the case studies to make them more equitable by applying our knowledge of each part of the framework.  It was a well-designed course that really helped participants understand and apply practices to bringing more equity and diversity into informal STEM experiences. 
 
After taking the course, I reflected on the Equity Compass and the work Girls Who Code is doing with their Summer Immersion Program.  I can proudly say that it is a powerful example of what informal STEM learning with a focus on equity and diversity looks like.  It is truly an honor to be part of this work in getting more girls and students from marginalized communities involved in Computer Science in a way that values their experience.