The growing overlap in multi-disciplinary research between 'soft' (socio-cultural) and 'hard' (STEM) science has made socially inclusive modelling practices increasingly relevant. It is important for modelling professionals to consider how societal and cultural awareness are relevant to their work. For example, while it may seem odd to link gender with modelling, there is a growing body of research that shows the benefits of doing so. Social science’s emphasis on gender analysis – in terms of how gender is socially constructed categories and norms, and how this influences individuals and society’s behaviours and values – has implications for how we conceptualise and then configure systems for modelling, how we engage with stakeholders, and how we report results. We are most interested in progressing this research field. As this is an emerging MODSIM theme, we are happy to take papers that describe your research and experiences in explicitly considering social inclusion and/or cultural perspectives in your modelling activities. Aspects that we will be looking for in your paper include a critical analysis of the activity (including the technical components), lessons learnt and insights gained. Papers that incorporate Indigenous perspectives are especially welcome.
Key topics: Indigenous knowledge, Social inclusion, Mainstreaming culture