Exploring Transformative Fandom to Broaden Participation in Computing

Abstract

Broadening participation in computing is essential for involving a diversity of perspectives in creating new technologies. Despite attempts to involve diverse groups in computer science, underrepresented groups such as women; racial, gender, and sexual minorities; and people with disabilities are still under-involved in formal computing spaces such as education and industry. In contrast to examining how to bring underrepresented groups into these spaces, I propose examining examples of computational work already happening within marginalized communities, where participants who may be outsiders to computing culture still engage with computation to empower their own communities.