Equity-Based Empathy Mapping in Learning Experience Design

Empathy mapping provides a human-centered approach to empathizing with learners and examining design from the learners’ perspectives. Equity is the central goal in learning experience design (LXD). Equity consists of fairness in accessing equality of opportunities and inclusion. We present an equity-based empathy mapping tool, the Photovoice SHOWeD technique, with examples and persona development in this position paper. We argue that the equity-based empathy mapping technique authentically portrays the sociocultural dimension. This technique aims to empower learners and honor learners’ perceptions and perspectives by providing multiple access points for conversation through visual means to learn about the sociocultural dimension in LXD. Equity-based empathy mapping authentically captures the sociocultural dimension to inform LXD.