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288-3 Indigenous-Inclusive Design Factors Enhance Geoscience Identity

Session: Indigenous Teaching and Research in the Geosciences: Approaches to Indigenizing Geoscience Across Multiple Contexts

Presenting Author:

Darryl Reano

Authors:

Reano, Darryl¹, Keeto, Ryssa², Chaides, Eric³, Tandon, Kushagra⁴, Moran, Steven⁵

(1) Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA, (2) Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA, (3) Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA, (4) Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA, (5) Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA,

Abstract:

The GeoConnections 2 (GC2) Project integrated three theoretical frameworks (the UFERN model, socioTransformative constructivism, and an Indigenous Research Framework) to create three inclusively-designed fieldwork experiences for a broad diversity of students. This resulted in the creation of intentionally-designed embodiments of Indigenous community cultural values we call “Indigenous-Inclusive Design Factors” (I-IDFs). Examples of I-IDFs include: trust-building, family + care, co-production, building agency, humility (e.g., diminished power structures), respect (e.g., maintaining an appropriate level of geoscience rigor) and intentional reciprocity. In this presentation, we report the results of a multi-method study to determine the impact of I-IDFs on geoscience identity, sense of belonging within the geoscience community, self-efficacy related to geoscience knowledge, and sources of social capital related to geoscience. We used a concurrent transformative research design to triangulate data collected from survey responses and interviews. To summarize the survey responses, we present a single case study to demonstrate the impact that I-IDFs had on the experience of a single participant who completed a survey before and after an inclusively-designed fieldwork experience. Interview audio files were transcribed and thematically analyzed, resulting in the identification of 9 unique themes: academic/research connections, career connections, community connections, cultural values, identities, logistics, pedagogies, real-world connections, and STEAM concepts. The final part of the presentation will present newly-identified Indigenous-Inclusive Design Factors that were recognized through the participants’ experience in GC2 activities.

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-5726

Indigenous-Inclusive Design Factors Enhance Geoscience Identity

Description

Session Format: Oral

Presentation Date: 10/22/2025

Presentation Start Time: 02:05 PM

Presentation Room: HBGCC, 302A

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