This study employs a co-design approach with students, library staff, and teachers to create technology kits for secondary school libraries, aimed at fostering interest in STEM careers among underrepresented groups such as girls, young carers, and students from widening participation backgrounds. This is significant due to the critical need to engage these groups in STEM fields from an early age. There is a shortage of inclusive, collaborative efforts in designing STEM educational resources that directly involve the target audience, ensuring the resources are relevant and effective.
The "Library of Inspiration," housed within school libraries, serves as a blended space for creativity and interdisciplinary learning. Each library features ten subject-specific kits covering Robotics, AR/VR, Sound Design, Information Science, AI, and more, integrating technology, written materials, online resources, narratives, career information, influential profiles, and app/website details.
The research began with co-design sessions in four high schools where participants developed kit contents through technology demonstrations, theme discussions, and explorations of inspiring individuals and events. These sessions aimed to inspire creativity, promote co-creation, facilitate hands-on learning, and provide career exploration resources.
Key goals include enhancing critical thinking, fostering inclusivity and engagement, and inspiring future STEM leaders. The project aims to subtly encourage STEM engagement by integrating it with students' existing interests, such as using football or music to explore digital storytelling or statistics. This paper outlines the ongoing study, offering evidence-based insights into effective strategies for engaging underrepresented groups in STEM education and careers.

Authors:
Debbie Meharg, Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom
Frauke Zeller, Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom
Iain McGregor, Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom
Iain Donald, Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom
Hanne Wagner, Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom
Dimitrios Darzentas, Edinburgh Napier University, United Kingdom

About the Presenter(s)
Debbie Meharg is Head of Applied Informatics. She has been involved in teaching, management and research for over 20 years. She is a Senior Fellow of the HEA, SICSA Education Champion and active member of the teaching fellows community.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-meharg

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Debbie-Meharg

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