411 on Makerspaces
“The mind has exactly the same power as the hands; not merely to grasp the world but to change it.” By Colin Wilson
A Makerspace is a learning environment where everyone can discover, collaborate, and create things. It is not defined as a certain space but rather an area of exploration, experimentation and tinkering. Many schools have been adding Makerspaces into their media centers but that is not the only place they have to be. You can add them into your classroom as well. There is a misconception that Makerspaces have to have technology such as a 3d printer and this is not true. I have seen many awesome Makerspaces with no technology in them such as Fashion Makerspaces. Ask parents to donate supplies or apply for a grants through Donors Choose or Go Fund Me: Education to help launch your Makerspace.
Here are some examples items you can put into your Makerspaces but not limited too:
- Recyclables: This is a cheap and easy way to start a Makerspace.
- cardboard
- plastic bottles or cups
- altoid tins
- magazines
- egg cartons
- milk cartons
- Building/Tinkering:
- Consumables:
- Play-dough
- yarn
- toothpicks
- popsicles sticks
- glue
- tools
- Electronic/Technology Items:
Helpful Articles and Resources:
7 Things You Should Know About Makerspaces
My previous Makerspace posts:
Ways to Use Blokify – Without a 3D Printer in the Classroom
Adding Creativity and Imagination to the Classroom
I would love to hear what you put into your Makerspaces.