An Interface Design Approach to Encouraging Online Contributions among Underrepresented Youth

Abstract

Research has revealed how actively contributing to online communities can build technological competencies related to 21st century learning and build identities as creators. However, recent studies have also shown that inequities exist in terms of who is participating. Addressing this problem, this chapter foregrounds user interface design as an important mediator that shapes how certain populations of youth can take advantage of learning opportunities. Focusing on the use of an online social learning network in an urban middle school of predominantly Latino students, the authors present the iterative design of a feature intended to encourage student contributions. The authors argue that there is a need to attend to the user interface design of online social learning systems as a way to create opportunities and to encourage youth from underrepresented groups to participate fully.