Attending conferences is essential for establishing networks, especially for early-career scholars. However, not everyone can attend due to caring responsibilities, particularly impacting women with children. Research shows that women attend fewer conferences than men, often citing childcare as a barrier.
To address this issue, a cultural shift is needed to provide targeted support for those with caring responsibilities. Institutions and funders should offer reimbursements for childcare and family travel costs. Some universities already cover childcare expenses for staff attending conferences. Additionally, conference organizers can play a role by providing funding for childcare facilities or listing vetted childcare providers in the area.
Moreover, making conferences accessible virtually can also benefit attendees. Virtual events have environmental advantages and allow for wider participation. However, organizing hybrid events that cater to both in-person and virtual attendees can be challenging and costly. Networking opportunities at in-person conferences are difficult to replicate online, but technological solutions should be explored to ensure virtual attendees are not left behind.
Despite the challenges, efforts should be made to prioritize online accessibility for all attendees. Recording sessions and making them available for viewing can enhance inclusivity. It is essential to monitor interventions rigorously to determine what works best in different contexts. By creating a learning agenda, organizers can identify valuable strategies and adapt to the needs of women, families, and organizations.
Overall, acknowledging the barriers faced by researchers with caring responsibilities is the first step towards creating more inclusive conference environments. Conference organizers and funders need to recognize the impact of the status quo on researchers and take steps to address these challenges for the betterment of science as a whole.