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Empowering the Next Generation of QTBIPOC Students in Leadership & AI

,
Colorado Convention Center, 205

Listen and learn: Edtalk
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Presenters

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Technical Program Director
Ada Developers Academy
Char's tech passion ignited during 11th grade when they delved into Computer Science. This led them to pursue a B.S. in Computer Science at the University of Texas at Dallas. After graduation, relocating to Seattle, commencing their software engineering career. Char embarked on a journey of anti-racism education and community organizing. Char joined Ada to impart their expertise to their community, contributing to tech diversification. At Ada, they craft learner-centered programs and materials in various formats, adhering to adult learning principles in line with Ada's mission. They offer instructional support, fostering best teaching practices throughout the organization.

Session description

Char creates learner-centered programs and materials, incorporating adult learning principles, while promoting teaching best practices. Char emphasizes the importance of empowering QIPOC educators, soft skills development, and self-advocacy. They also shed light on the pressing need for QIBPOC coders in the AI field to create inclusive technology.

Purpose & objective

Objective 1: Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the fields of education and technology, with a particular focus on empowering QIPOC, trans, and Black individuals.

Objective 2: Participants will learn about the unique challenges faced by these communities in technology and education, such as underrepresentation and biases, and how these challenges can be addressed.

Objective 3: Participants will discover practical strategies for empowering QIPOC educators, enhancing their soft skills, and advocating for themselves in the workplace or educational settings.

Objective 4: Participants will explore the crucial need for diversity in AI development, particularly by highlighting the role of QIBPOC coders in creating more inclusive AI technology.

Objective 5: Participants will learn how to leverage technology to advance the cause of inclusivity and diversity in education, using digital tools and platforms to promote diverse voices and perspectives.

Educational or Infrastructure Challenge/Situation: The presentation addresses the persistent underrepresentation of QIPOC, trans, and Black individuals in the fields of education and technology, highlighting the need for diverse perspectives to solve challenges in these sectors effectively.

Technology Intervention: The presentation may reference various technology tools and platforms that can be employed to promote inclusivity and diversity, but specific tool names and descriptions would depend on the context and the needs of the participants.

Models Employed: Char will employ models of advocacy, mentorship, and community building to address the challenges and opportunities in the pursuit of diversity and inclusivity in education and technology.

Lesson Plans or Instructional Activities/Strategies Employed: The presentation may include real-world case studies, personal anecdotes, and interactive discussions to engage the audience in a conversation about the role of diverse voices in education and tech. Participants may engage in group discussions and brainstorming sessions to explore practical strategies for promoting diversity and inclusivity.

Evidence of Success: Success will be measured through increased awareness and understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusivity, the adoption of practical strategies by participants, and their commitment to advocating for these principles in their own educational or professional environments. Additionally, success will be demonstrated by the active participation of QIPOC, trans, and Black individuals in leadership roles and AI development, thereby contributing to a more inclusive and equitable future in education and technology.

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Outline

Introduction
A. Hook: "Computers only do what we tell them, humans do more."
B. Introduction to Char
1. Name
2. Pronouns: He/They
3. Affiliation with Ada Developers Academy

II. Char's Journey in Technology
A. Early passion for technology
1. Introduction to Computer Science in high school
B. Pursuit of a B.S. in Computer Science
1. Graduation from the University of Texas at Dallas
C. Relocation to Seattle for a career in software engineering
D. Simultaneous exploration of anti-racism and community organizing

III. The Importance of Diverse Voices in Tech
A. Char's transition to Ada Developers Academy
1. The motivation behind joining Ada
2. Commitment to diversifying the tech industry
B. Role at Ada Developers Academy
1. Creating learner-centered programs and materials
2. Incorporating adult learning principles
3. Providing instruction support and promoting best teaching practices

IV. Empowering QIPOC Students
A. The value of QIPOC Students as leaders
1. Nurturing leadership potential
2. Fostering soft skills development
B. Advocacy for QIPOC educators
1. Encouraging self-advocacy and empowerment

V. The Need for Diversity in AI Development
A. Current lack of diversity in AI
1. Highlighting the issue
2. The importance of diverse perspectives
B. The role of QIBPOC coders
1. Shaping inclusive AI technology
2. Addressing biases in AI

VI. Conclusion
A. Recap key points
B. Call to action
1. Encouraging diversity in education and tech
2. Promoting the empowerment of QIPOC educators
C. Open for questions and discussion

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Supporting research

**Articles:**

1. **"Why Diversity Matters"** (McKinsey & Company)
- [Read it here](https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/why-diversity-matters)
- This article highlights the business case for diversity, emphasizing its positive impact on innovation and performance.

2. **"The Importance of Inclusion in Tech"** (Harvard Business Review)
- [Read it here](https://hbr.org/2020/11/the-importance-of-inclusion-in-tech)
- This article discusses the need for inclusion in the tech industry and how it benefits both individuals and organizations.

**Books:**

1. **"Algorithms of Oppression: How Search Engines Reinforce Racism"** by Safiya Umoja Noble
- [Find it here](https://www.safiyanoble.com/algorithms-of-oppression)
- This book delves into the biases and inequalities embedded in technology and the role of diversity in addressing them.

2. **"The Black Unicorn: Poems"** by Audre Lorde
- [Find it here](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/606682/the-black-unicorn-by-audre-lorde)
- Audre Lorde's poetry addresses intersectionality and the importance of diverse voices.

**Recognized Experts:**

1. **Dr. Ruha Benjamin**
- Website: [ruhabenjamin.com](https://www.ruhabenjamin.com/)
- Dr. Ruha Benjamin is a renowned scholar on the intersection of race, justice, and technology. Her work emphasizes the impact of bias and discrimination in technology.

2. **Dr. Joy Buolamwini**
- Website: [joybuolamwini.com](https://www.joybuolamwini.com/)
- Dr. Joy Buolamwini is an AI researcher and advocate for algorithmic fairness. Her research focuses on addressing bias in AI and the importance of diverse perspectives in AI development.

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Session specifications

Topic:
Innovative learning environments
Grade level:
Community college/university
Skill level:
Beginner
Audience:
Curriculum/district specialists, Teacher education/higher ed faculty, Technology coordinators/facilitators
Attendee devices:
Devices not needed
Subject area:
Computer science, STEM/STEAM
ISTE Standards:
For Educators:
Leader
  • Shape, advance and accelerate a shared vision for empowered learning with technology by engaging with education stakeholders.
  • Advocate for equitable access to educational technology, digital content and learning opportunities to meet the diverse needs of all students.
Facilitator
  • Manage the use of technology and student learning strategies in digital platforms, virtual environments, hands-on makerspaces or in the field.