Minerva

https://github.com/NASA-Space-Apps-Minerva/Turn-STEM-Into-STEAM

https://bit.ly/Slides-Just-Canva-It

How Does It Work

Just Canva It is a solution based on Design Thinking Methodology and the usage of Canva's intuitive graphic design features. The idea behind it is to allow science communicators to follow the steps outline below to conceive and design solutions that turn STEM into STEAM.

Empathize

During this phase, science communicators are expected to carry out research to empathize with their audience through a cultural lens. Three key cross-cultural design consideration were found:

1. Language
2. Iconography
3. Color

What is more, it is suggested that Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Theory is considered when approaching science communication. This framework is commonly used to explore the differences between cultures and assess their impact on various settings.

1. Power Distance refers to the extent to which the less powerful members of institutions within a country expect and accept that power is distributed unequally.
2. Collectivism vs. Individualism refers to the degree of interdependence a culture maintains among its members.
3. Femininity vs. Masculinity
4. Uncertainty Avoidance refers to which the members of a culture feel threatened by the unknown.
5. Short-term vs. Long-Term refers to how a society has to maintain some links with its own past while dealing with the present.

As a case study for this challenge, Canadian culture was analyzed. Lastly, by the end of this phase, science communicators should develop user persona taking into consideration the audience's race, ethnicity, among, other culture-specific characteristics.

Define, Ideate, and Prototype

For the Define phase, it is important to focus on the main goal of the message, as shown below. This part can be referred to as following the AEIOU principle - focusing on Awareness, Enjoyment, Interest, Opinion Forming, Understanding.

For the Prototype phase, the following was done:

Solution Benefits

For Space Agencies:

1. Reach broad audiences in a creative, intuitive, and empathetic manner
2. Employ science communication practices to further their respective mandates

Reference: the Canadian Space Agency's mandate is advance the knowledge of space through science and ensure that space science and technology provide social and economic benefits for Canadians

For Researchers:

1. Gather support and secure funding for future scientific studies
2. Find opportunities to collaborate (academia, non-profit, private companies)

For Science Communicators and Designers:

1. Create understandable, accessible and culturally sensitive solutions
2. Employfree/inexpensive and readily available online resources

For the General Public:

1. Increase their awareness of complex societal challenges
2. Gain understanding of the work carried out by space agencies
3. Make use of scientific findings to better their communities and their quality of life

Methodology and Tools

As previously mentioned Design Thinking Methodology was adapted to the process developing science communication solutions within the space sector. In terms, of software, Canva was employed.

The key idea behind the usage of Canva is to leverage all the free online graphic design assets this software provides. Using Canva allows researchers, science communicators or anyone interested in creating art, music, or other forms of digital media to quickly bring their ideas to live without needing a strong graphic design background. Moreover, Canva is perfectly suited as a facilitating tool throughout the Design Thinking Process as it also carries templates to create user personas and to implement brainstorming techniques.

• NASA's open-source science initiative (OSSI) Principles provided inspiration and set a criteria that allows to design solution that would
• The Canadian Space Agency's Comprehensive Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of the Canadian Space Sector

The Space Apps Experience was definitely an experiential learning experience that was truly enjoyable.

What did you learn?

While browsing through the open-source data made available by different agencies, I was able to learn more about their different mandates, research projects, and other outreach efforts.

What inspire you to choose this challenge?

As a software developer, I am always looking for solutions that will allow me to really capture users' needs. The Turn STEM into STEAM Challenge asked participants to find innovate ways to capture the cultural diversity present within various audiences, which in more than one way, required carrying out research and getting to know in-depth details of the intended audience. Additionally, I enjoying graphic design.

What was your approach to developing this project?

As a first step, I carried out extensive research on theories designed to capture cultural diversity within a population. Next, I adapted design thinking theory to solve the issue at hand. Lastly, I evaluated proven software solutions and made a determination based on pros. vs. cons.

How did you resolve setbacks and challenges?

Anytime I encountered a setback or challenges, I took a 30 min. break, and try to approach the problem from a different angle.

Is there anyone you would like to thank and why?

I would like to the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science and my teammates and friend at the Space Concordia Rocketry Division. Their efforts and determination to reach for the stars, inspires me everyday to go after my own dreams.

1. Tufts University, Communications and Marketing, 2022, https://communications.tufts.edu/marketing-and-branding/social-media-overview/
2. J. O'Connor, T. W. Burns and S. Stocklmayer, Science Communication: A Contemporary Definition, Public Understanding of Science, 12 (2003), 183-202.
3. Design School (canva.com)
4. Buffer, Buffer, https://buffer.com/
5. Interaction Design Foundation, What is Design Thinking and Why Is It So Popular, https://www.interaction-design.org/literature/article/what-is-design-thinking-and-why-is-it-so-popular
6. Institute of Design at Standford, An Introduction to Design Thinking Process Guide, Standford University, 2016.
7. Canada - Hofstede Insights (hofstede-insights.com)
8. Open-Source Science Initiative | Science Mission Directorate (nasa.gov)

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