Identifying Systematic Bias

We’re all biased in some ways, whether implicitly or explicitly. Similarly, the systems and processes we build and use in our work are also biased towards certain outcomes. In astronomy, telescopes are biased towards collecting certain wavelengths of light. To give a non-academic example, maybe the nature of the survey you facilitate at work makes it easier for some people to fill it out than others. Many biases aren’t inherently bad, but it is important to be aware of them so you can do the best work possible.

The second of a three-part series of Skype workshops at Local 64, they are the perfect summertime professional and social break. Led by astronomer and storytelling enthusiast Moiya McTier, these workshops will help you integrate scientific tools of inquiry and perception into your life. $10 suggested donation.

Moiya grew up in a small coal-mining town in Pennsylvania, far enough from a large city that she had a clear view of the night sky, but didn't begin to pursue astronomy professionally until her sophomore year at Harvard College. At the same time, she was learning from Harvard's folklore department how to study people and tell their stories. Her college years were filled with struggles brought on by the weakness of her science and math background and rude awakenings about what it means to be a woman of color in STEM.

After graduating in 2016, Moiya continued her education in the astronomy PhD program at Columbia University. It was there, in a city with millions of people who don't mind sparing the occasional hour to learn about the universe, that she realized her double training in scientific research and narrative storytelling made her an excellent science communicator.

Learn more about Moiya at: moiyamctier.com