Abstract:
The panel will discuss data practices, tools and techniques for advancing inclusive science and STEM equity. By combining frameworks such as IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility), GBA+ (Gender-Based Analysis Plus), and Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS), the panel aims to create a holistic approach to inclusivity in data practices and scientific research design, practice, and reporting.

Summary of Conversations

The panel explored the crucial role of research and data in advancing STEM equity, emphasizing the need for inclusive data practices and community involvement. Discussions highlighted the importance of intersectional data, particularly disaggregated data by race and gender, to address disparities effectively. Speakers underscored the significance of valuing lived experiences as valid data and ensuring communities have ownership and power in data collection and analysis. The conversation also covered the necessity of transparency and trust-building in community engagement. Finally, panelists explored tools and techniques for inclusive science, emphasizing the need to integrate diverse perspectives and ensure reciprocal benefits for participating communities, while warning of research exploitation.

Take Away Messages/Current Status of Challenges

• Lack of Disaggregated Data: A significant barrier is the insufficient collection and utilization of disaggregated data, especially concerning race and gender, leading to the marginalization of certain groups in STEM equity initiatives. 
• Over-reliance on US data: there is a need to collect local and more representative data instead of relying on data collected from the US. 
• Community Distrust: Historical exploitation and a lack of transparency have fostered distrust among communities, hindering their willingness to participate in research and data collection efforts. 
• Power Imbalance: Traditional research methodologies often perpetuate power imbalances, with researchers benefiting more than the communities they study, raising ethical concerns about objectification and exploitation. 
• Implementation Gaps: Policies and initiatives often fail to translate into tangible change at the community level, highlighting an implementation problem and a lack of accountability. 
• Inadequate Tools and Techniques: Limited resources and a lack of tailored tools and techniques impede the effective integration of inclusive science principles into research practices. 
• Workforce Diversity and Inclusion: Achieving inclusive science requires a diverse and inclusive workforce, where individuals feel valued and supported, but inclusion is a critical and often overlooked aspect. 
• Incentive Structures in Academia: Current academic incentive structures prioritize quantity over quality, hindering researchers from investing the necessary time and resources in building relationships and conducting meaningful community-engaged research.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Prioritize Disaggregated Data Collection: Emphasize the collection of intersectional data, disaggregated by race, gender, and socioeconomic status, to identify and address the specific needs of marginalized groups. 
• Empower Community Ownership: Ensure communities have genuine ownership and control over data collection, analysis, and dissemination processes, giving them a voice and agency in research initiatives. 
• Foster Transparent Partnerships: Build trust through transparency, open communication, and equitable partnerships with communities, involving them in every stage of the research process. 
• Value Lived Experiences: Recognize and incorporate lived experiences as legitimate and valuable data, complementing quantitative data to provide a more holistic understanding of equity issues. 
• Develop Reciprocal Agreements: Establish reciprocal agreements that ensure mutual benefits for researchers and participating communities, addressing their needs and priorities. 
• Tailor Training and Resources: Provide researchers with tailored training and resources to integrate inclusive science principles into their work, focusing on practical tools and techniques. 
• Promote Inclusive Reporting: Disseminate research findings through accessible platforms and formats, ensuring the information reaches and benefits diverse communities. 
• Reform Incentive Structures: Advocate for changes to academic incentive structures that prioritize community-engaged research, relationship building, and the production of high-quality, impactful work.