So training in technology means working with computers, cell phones, cameras - tools that generate creativity. But there is something about paints and paper and creating something collective which generates a different energy and a different creativity. And to me, a feminist practice of technology is facilitating creativity and reflecting on our use of and feelings towards technology.
That's why at the FTX in South Africa last year, Women'sNet included hand mapping as one of the exercises in expressing and reflecting on our use of and relationship to technology. We gathered in groups around large sheets of paper and took paint and brushes, traced around each others hands and begain mapping....
We used colours to express our feelings towards technology (which are never fixed!) red for passion, yellow for possibility, green for confusion.. in each finger on the one hand we could paint or write the tools we like - email, blogs, digial cameras and in the other hand what we use the tools for - connecting, creating, writing, networking, researching...
Showing each other our hands and where we saw the differences or the similarities between each other was fun! Each group shared with each other and then with the larger group. The colours, signs, meanings and connections was fantastic. And we used a different side of our brains and hearts.
And the hand mapping made us smile!
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Defines our approach to training. It outlines the core values that comprise feminist technology training. It is based on the experiences and politics of feminists who train other women to use technologies creatively and strategically.
How do we approach technology as women's rights activists? Where do communication rights fit into women’s movements? How can we reclaim technology for women's empowerment?
The Feminist Tech Exchange, also known as the FTX, was developed in response to calls from feminist and women's rights movements for greater understanding of emerging technologies, their potential and...
Training agenda, presentations, trainers' notes that have been used in our FTX workshops. Definitely useful in planning your our training and your own FTX workshops.
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Tried, tested and true technology resources made for and used by activists and non-profit groups. Guaranteed to make your feminist tech training extra-special.
Fantastic women who know a thing or two (...or more) about appropriating technology for women's rights and empowerment. They have been trainers / facilitators in our FTX workshops.
Unless otherwise stated, content on the FTX website is licenced under CreativeCommons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0
