Co-designing with Community: The Thámien Ohlone AR Tour
Group of people presenting at podium
The Celebration of New Members Keynote, "Co-designing with Community: The Thámien Ohlone AR Tour," provided an opportunity to showcase the anthropology and history of the Thámien Ohlone land on which Santa Clara University now sits, utilizing augmented and virtual reality (VR) technology, and with explicit community co-design. This project showcases the community-led work of the Thámien Ohlone in educating Santa Clara University and all visitors about their identity and connection to the University. It speaks to the past, but also presents the attachment to the land for the Thámien Ohlone people.
I was able to get some great reflections from Academy members about their takeaways from the talk and discussion:
- I love how virtual reality was used creatively in the education space to reflect on equity, which is essential for learners about groups of people who've undergone significant change. And people who may not always. Be thought of as continuing to exist, and not only exist, but thrive.
- It was an excellent opportunity to leverage current technology using VR. I think of ways we can consider using AI to some extent, such as creating educational projects similar to this one at UCSF or UC Merced, as a way to connect learners to their local communities. We often overlook the indigenous people in these areas. They are vital to their communities and their healthcare.
- A great way to consider projects that engage learners and draw on the local community's wealth of expertise and stewardship.
- To learn about history that is unknown and how it can inform or enhance present and future learning. I'd love to know if the SCU team is measuring impact on the indigenous community, learners, and the greater community.
- Using technology in ways that can foster better conversations about things that are difficult.
- Educate us in the ways we think about space and community work!
- I think this is a great project. I think about the places where we're doing work that is important for the community, like the medical education program at UC Merced. These are students who will stay in this community and are committed to its well-being.
- It's the importance of anthropological and historical narratives that is significant to the community and the physical space we occupy, especially as we build the new hospital at Parnassus.
- Showing the resiliency of the communities we serve and belong to.
The team from Santa Clara University: Danielle Heitmuller, Kai Lukoff, Amy Lueck, Lee Panich, Tiffany Nguyen, and Isabella Amne Gomez. The presentation is available below.
