A Gendered Perspective on Making from an Autoethnography Study in Makerspaces

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The purpose of this pictorial is to provide a unique perspective, through an autoethnographic account, of the experiences a woman of colour may have, as she seeks to enter into the world of makerspaces. As an intersectional woman, conducting this autoethnography is a means to assess the cultural and gender diversity of makerspaces in an Australian metro city, and their practices to foster inclusivity. Over a period of 6 months, the lead author explored 4 different types of makerspaces. The autoethnography found cultural and gendered roles and biases in the physical and socio-cultural environments of each makerspace, as well as in terminologies, tools, materials and learning pathways that constrained her involvement. The research identifies important factors that could be amplified to increase the involvement of intersectional women and the foundations for new guidelines and activities that would enable makerspaces to improve their diversity and inclusivity.