4 Background: Previous work that inspired me

Dr. Sibrina Collins used concepts from the Marvel: Black Panther movie to introduce periodic table properties, Dr. Christopher Edmin utilized rap, musical influence, and highlighting historical figures in both the music and scientific community to his students. While these approaches address different challenges to connect with the PEERs community, there has yet to be an approach that addresses multiple challenges simultaneously. This project addresses relevance, cultural representation, and communication all while being inclusive to the broad audience that is impacted with footwear, more specifically sneakers.

Additionally, this project embodies a cultural and socially relevant trend with the use of sneakers and hip-hop. There is also a language and communication benefit by incorporating the use of “slang”, rap, and language familiar to Millennials and a Gen Z audience. Furthermore, this project introduces an engaging aspect to it and incorporates a hands-on STEAM activity approach to cater to a wide range of learning styles. In addition, the PEERs community is heavily influenced by both hip-hop and sneaker culture on a daily basis.