Running a Maker-space: Inspiring Creativity and Ingenuity
A maker-space serves many purposes, providing access to tools, materials, and an environment that promotes creativity; however, there are many important factors to consider when creating and running a maker-space for students.
Organization
In a maker-space, organization is key when designing the area. It is important to be able for someone to locate and tool or any material that they need. Make sure to separate tools that don't mix, like electronics and sawdust.
As seen in the picture at left, the Ashland Innovation Center has a dedicated corner for the computer related tools and materials whereas the messier tools can be found in other section of the maker-space, separated based on the media such as wood cutting, poster creation, and circuit soldering.
Access To Tools
Getting kids interested in the maker-space can be as simple as having the right set of tools. This can range, from the basic hand tools necessary to construct their project, to the more high-tech tools that can grab a student's attention.
The most basic tools can also be the most invaluable as they provide students with the ability to construct whatever project they want. From woodworking to constructing a computer, basic handheld tools are a necessity. Screwdrivers, drills, hammers, and wrenches are helpful for putting together or taking apart any combination of materials.
Beyond these basic tools, there are plentiful options for more advanced tools from 3D printers to carvers and anything in between, a maker space can be the habitat of any machine you can imagine. To learn more about how to operate these tools, you can view any of the other blog posts that go over tools individually.
So, how to use these tools to inspire students? The most important thing to remember is to keep each station open. Rather than lock tools away, let student be driven by their own curiosity to learn how to operate one of the tools on the maker-space. When you create the makers-space with the intention to provide access to tools previously unavailable to them, it is necessary to give students access to whatever they want to pursue (within reason and safety of course). Even if a student doesn't immediately see a tool to work with, it is important to encourage them to try something new.
Motivating Students
The most important part of the maker-space is to encourage students to learn and explore, trying new things to expand their horizons. To accomplish this, lessons must be provided to teach kids the basics, so they can further their own understanding of the topic; however, it is important to keep lessons unrestricted. Unlike classroom lessons, students of the maker-space want to be working and learning hands on rather than simply learning about conceptual concepts. Try to encourage students to discover the ideas behind the lessons on their own. Sometimes, trial and error can be valuable lessons for students so long as mistakes don't put them in danger. When trying to teach something like circuits, try to let them play with circuits and experiment. If you want them to learn something specific, like the difference between parallel and serial circuits, try asking them what happens in both scenarios and let them try to build the setups themselves. Of course, encourage students to ask question if they need help, but always try to put the emphasis on self learning. If they need help, try going through the problem solving process with them rather than simply taking control.
Learning something new is at the core of any maker-space. Because of this, challenges and obstacles will naturally arise for every student using the space. Whether it be technical issues with a computer, software or program, or physical problems with finding or using the right tools. When Confronted by a particular problem, it is important to stress problem solving to students. If they can find a way to overcome their problems, then each barrier they breach can become a learning experience for them. Despite this ideal situation, sometimes a problem can be a matter for an administrator or adult, so it is up to everyone in the maker-space to recognize when each response is appropriate.
And Finally...
An Important mentality to remember is to have fun! Don't forget that the maker-space is a perfect place for experimentation, successes, and failures. Take roadblocks as opportunities to learn! Let creativity and curiosity drive both you and your students. When you have a well organized maker-space, with the tools for students to exceed, anything can happen.
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