Inclusivity

In the course of this project, we delved deep into understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals with color blindness. It became clear that their ability to recognize colors might be different, and this insight served as our guiding principle. As a result, we reimagined the design of our test strips, ensuring that color markers are not only clearly visible but also easily distinguishable. Our website’s interface and charts underwent a significant transformation, adopting larger fonts and enhanced contrast to guarantee that color-blind individuals can navigate effortlessly and comprehend information.

This journey not only deepened our understanding of the challenges faced by the color-blind community but also highlighted the profound impact of considering diverse needs. It’s a testament to the idea that science and education can become more inclusive and friendly to all individuals. A notable example is a fellow student who was once challenged by color blindness and has now become a valued advisor in our project. His unique experience and insightful suggestions have positively influenced our work.

We firmly believe that by accommodating the diverse needs of individuals, the progress of science and education can have a far-reaching impact, making learning and experimentation accessible to everyone, regardless of their specific requirements. Our aspiration is that our efforts can enhance the learning and experimental experiences of individuals with color blindness and others who have distinct needs.

2.Inclusive Website Design for All
At the heart of our website design lies a fundamental commitment to inclusivity. We believe that every user should have an equitable and enriching experience, regardless of their unique abilities. In our pursuit of an inclusive digital space, we’ve employed a range of thoughtful design choices. From color considerations that cater to color-blind users to the integration of icons, labels, and high-contrast elements, our design philosophy prioritizes universal accessibility. We understand that diversity is a strength, and our website is a reflection of that understanding. Explore a space where every user is at the center, and inclusivity is not just a principle but a practice.

2.1 Background and text color considerations:
Avoid using color combinations that are unfriendly to color-blind users, such as red and green, as it is the most common type for colorblind.
Black and white are the highest-contrast color combinations, making them easier to discern for most color-blind users.


2.2 Clarity through icons and labels:
For users who have difficulty recognizing colors, icons and labels can assist in conveying information. For example, use a combination of icons and text in the navigation bar to provide clearer navigation instructions.

2.3 Optimal contrast selections:
Choose color combinations with high contrast, such as black fonts and light backgrounds, or white fonts and dark backgrounds.

2.4 Universal clarity with black and white:
Black and white are the highest contrast color combinations and are easier to discern for most color-blind users. The website has a black and white viewing mode effect.


Advancing gender equality in STEM
In light of the historical gender disparities in education and STEM fields, significant strides have been made towards fostering gender equality and inclusivity. While OECD countries have notably reversed overall educational gender gaps in the latter half of the 20th century, it is crucial to recognize that gender inequality persists, particularly in the realm of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). STEM fields have historically been dominated by males since the Enlightenment era in the 18th century. According to a 2019 UNESCO report, only 35% of higher education students in the global STEM arena are women, shedding light on the wide gender gap that exists in one of the fastest-growing sectors in the workforce. This disparity is influenced by a multitude of factors, from societal expectations to workplace demands. To bridge this gap, numerous policies, strategies, and initiatives have been established worldwide, including renowned programs such as ‘Girls Who Code,’ ‘Women in Data Science Initiative,’ ‘Pinays Can Stem,’ and ‘Women in STEM initiative,’ among others.

It is encouraging to note that IGEM itself strongly advocates gender diversity, and the Diversity and Inclusion Committee of IGEM has been actively investigating gender diversity within the competition since 2013. Their comprehensive research revealed underrepresentation of women at various levels in IGEM, with particularly low representation at the advanced category participant level. Consequently, efforts have been consistently directed towards encouraging teams to include more female participants. As of 2018, 42% of IGEM students identified as female or non-binary, 44% of advisors, instructors, and PIs were female or non-binary (an increase from 25% in 2017), and 50% of judges were female or non-binary (marking the first time it reached this level.

To foster an environment of inclusivity, we have established the ‘Girls in STEM’ club with 10 current members, aiming to attract more young women into STEM fields.

Our initiative involves establishing a robust regional Girls in STEM network in Nanjing, Jiangsu, and even extending across China. Through regular roundtable discussions, workshops, and online social events, we create a platform for women to share their challenges and successes in the STEM field. We also extend invitations to seasoned tech professionals to share their personal stories and offer guidance to inspire the next generation of female STEM enthusiasts.

Besides, we prioritize the development of minority women in science and engineering, as well as those in less developed regions. By organizing fundraising activities, including charity sales, and collaborating with organizations like the ‘Starry Sky Charity Foundation,’ we raise funds to provide tailored reading materials and resources to offer opportunities for success in STEM fields. Additionally, we seek support from both society and corporations to establish specific funds that encourage the growth of female tech professionals in underprivileged regions.

Lastly, our commitment extends to the broader social and corporate community, as we aim to create dedicated funds that foster the growth of women in technology, particularly in underprivileged and less developed areas.

Through these measures, we aspire to offer increased support to women in the tech industry, encourage more young girls to venture into STEM fields, and contribute our modest part to achieving gender equality in the world of technology. We firmly believe that, through our collective efforts, we can build a more inclusive and diverse STEM community where every individual has the opportunity to pursue their technological dreams. Our mission is driven by the conviction that by fostering diversity, we enrich the landscape of STEM and unlock the potential of every aspiring scientist or engineer, regardless of their gender.