TASCHA TALK
From co-working to hackerspaces: An introduction to innovation spaces <http://tascha.uw.edu/2011/11/december-1-developing-a-framework-for-digitally-inclusive-communities-to-help-improve-access-through-collaborative-action/> Chris Coward
Thursday -- April 12, from 3:45 to 4:45 pm Roosevelt Commons Building, Multi-Purpose Room Remote or outside of Seattle: Via Adobe Connect <http://connect.washington.edu/ischool-tascha/> We all know what the typical telecenter or library computer space looks like - people sitting behind monitors along rows of desks, working away on whatever it is they are doing. This model serves a purpose, and as our research indicates, people can benefit greatly from the sort of access and services that one finds in these places. But at the same time this standard configuration is limiting in the types of activities that people can engage in around computers. In this talk I introduce other models of communal computer usage, places described as co-working spaces, hacker or maker spaces, and innovation hubs. We will first take a tour, exploring what people do in these places, who they are designed for, and what makes them work. As we will see, the physical design, management, rules, and services of these spaces foster a wide range activities. Next, we will look at the ways people across disciplines are conducting research on innovation spaces. What are the driving questions? How are people trying to understand the phenomenon and introduce technological, design, or other interventions to improve the impacts of these places? Finally, we will discuss potential research opportunities for TASCHA and others to contribute to advancing this space. About the presenter Chris Coward<http://tascha.uw.edu/author/chriscoward/> is the co-founder, Principal Research Scientist, and Director of the Technology & Social Change Group (TASCHA) at the University of Washington Information School. Under his leadership, TASCHA has grown in size and scope over the last decade, encompassing research in 50 countries. Chris specializes in designing research programs that improve policy and practice. His work focuses on examining the social and economic impacts of information and communication technologies (ICT), with particular attention to the role of libraries and nonprofit organizations in developing countries. Chris holds a Master of Public Administration degree and a Master of Arts in International Studies degree, both from the University of Washington. TASCHA Talks are bi-weekly sessions to share, discuss, and advance new ideas around topics related to technology and social change. Learn more at tascha.uw.edu/taschatalks<http://tascha.uw.edu/taschatalks/> -- Melody Clark Research Coordinator | Global Impact Study Technology & Social Change (TASCHA) http://about.me/melodyclark melclark@uw.edu<mailto:melclark@uw.edu> | 206.685.7819 Twitter: @ictimpact<http://twitter.com/#!/ICTimpact> | @melodyrclark<https://twitter.com/#!/melodyrclark> www.globalimpactstudy.org<http://www.globalimpactstudy.org/>