Awkward Moment

It was developed by the Tiltfactor Lab as part of a National Science Foundation-funded project called “Transforming Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) For Women and Girls: Reworking Stereotypes & Bias.”[1][2] It is a 20-minute game for middle and high school students (ages 12 and up) that places players in socially awkward circumstances.

[3] Players take turns assuming the role of the Decider.

The Decider reveals a Moment Card that describes a humorous, embarrassing, or stressful situation for the group and a Decider Card that provides a guideline for choosing a winning Reaction.

[4] The gameplay of Awkward Moment encourages players to consider other's viewpoints and assess their own biases.

[5] Data suggests that Awkward Moment strengthens associations between women and STEM and reduces people's trained biases.