Research
The Critical Making Project studies the potential
of responsible innovation within the
global grassroots maker movement.
Methodology
The critical making methodology explores grassroots innovation practices that take place in maker spaces, fablabs, etc. to locate dimensions of Responsible Research & Innovation (RRI) within them.
Primary data is collected to understand the extent to which maker communities reflect RRI principles. This work is supported by an extensive secondary data review and analysis.
This mixed method approach enables the development of theories and insights on how RRI principles can be better embedded in maker practices.
Next to analysing existing practices, concrete interventions aimed at fostering RRI principles in maker movements are being co-designed. To do so, the project specifically looks at aspects of gender, openness and the recruitment of young talents.
Global Research Network
The Critical Making research project is led by Zentrum Für Soziale Innovation GmbH (Austria), Technische Universität Berlin (Germany), VTT Technical Research Centre (Finland), Wikifactory Europe (Spain), and Global Innovation Gathering e.V (Germany). Learn about the Consortium >.
Aimed at harnessing the innovation potential of the global grassroots maker movement, measures are being co-designed to foster RRI principles in the open innovation movement. The project’s research findings provide hands-on input for practitioners, and enrich the scientific knowledge base in the RRI community focused on innovation processes and practices.
Project Timeline
2021
Building the Knowledge Base
Analyzing responsibility in maker movements
A critical review of aspects related to Gender, Youth, and Openness in the Maker Community was carried out, together with participatory co-ideation workshops amongst consortium members.
2021-2022
Designing the
Framework
Co-designing a critical making framework
Stakeholder consultation to co-design implementable measures specific to gender, young talents, and openness for Critical Making. This phase includes the co-design of the critical making mentorship program and gender-equality activities.
2022-2023
Using the
Framework
Supporting responsible making in the ecosystem
Working with global maker communities
to engage with the critical making framework. Capacity building and adoption of RRI principles for responsible open hardware projects will be supported.
Critical Making 