Citizen media is growing by the day. Under-served communities need access to internet services, and the use of the latest technology, enabling people to participate in social and community engagement. The proposed Changeshop is a spin-off from the Ethical Citizen Media entry in the Google Citizen Media contest. This project incorporates STEM principles, as a way to promote STEM projects in urban America, and on a global scale.

Problem

The United States has begun to lose its status as a scientific and technological leader, and the only way we can hope to compete in the 21st century global economy is if we invest in research and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. The international community is farther behind, as a result of underdevelopment, and having unlimited access to technology, and STEM science and engineering programs.

Solution

This solution opens the gateway for under-served and populations and cultures to gain viable access to STEM education and technology. Participants will access to the Changeshop project in existing programs and structures where members of the community already have access i.e. schools, community buildings, (worship centers), and other facilities willing to serve as project sites. Youth and adults, and people with all abilities will have fair and equal access.

Example

This model incorporates a developing Citizen Media model, in which technology used will be incorporated into STEM curriculum. The model will be implemented in Los Angles schools and communities where Eway Foundation, and Eway Tech has established a presence, and support from teachers, students, parents, administrators, and LAUSD school board members. Simultaneously, the project will be implemented in Eroupe and Africa, as well as other identified cultures, in order to conduct chronological studies of the effects of STEM projects between cultures.

Marketplace

Currently, there is plenty of talk in the Los Angeles are regarding the need for STEM programs, urban and minority engineers, however the availability and implementation of such programs seem to be scarce, and slow to develop. We plan to partner with organizations with ideas in place, but are challenged by the inability to get their projects off the ground. By partnering, and utilizing existing resources, more people can benefit and be served, without cross-creating.