Experimental and credentialing capital: an adaptable framework for facilitating science outreach for underrepresented youth

Increasing the numbers of black, latino and native youth in STEM careers is both an important way to reduce poverty in low income communities, and a contribution to the diversity of thought and experience that drives STEM research. But underrepresented youth are often alienated from STEM. Two new forms of social capital have been identified that can be combined to create a learning environment in which students and researchers can meet and explore an area of shared interest. Experimental capital refers to the intrinsic motivation that students can develop when they learn inquiry techniques for exploring topics that they feel ownership over. Credentialing capital denotes a shared interest and ability between all parties engaged in the experimental endeavor. These two forms of social capital form an adaptable framework for researchers to use to create effective outreach programs. In this case study sports biomechanics was utilized as the area of shared interest and understanding the slam dunk was used as experimental capital.