Make Your Own Makerspace
Written by Debbie Harris, Tech Tools brings you excellent technology tips to inspire you and add creativity to your teaching.
What is a Makerspace?
At their core, Makerspaces are places that encourage hands-on learning, collaboration, and self-expression. Makerspaces are popping up in schools, libraries, and private facilities everywhere. Some boast lots of high-tech equipment like 3D printers, laser cutters, cnc machines, and electronic paper cutters. Others are filled with low-tech items like cardboard, batteries, and Legos.
In Your Classroom
Before you go out and buy a lot of equipment, think about your goals. Are you looking for a room similar to an art room that teachers can use to supplement classroom learning? Are you interested in creating opportunities for parents and children to create together? Is this a space that youth groups might use?
One way to begin might be to look at your existing curriculum to see if there are themes that lend themselves to making. Think about combining Hanukkah with paper circuitry and having students create battery-operated cards or paper chanukiot. A sewing center can support challah cover making or tallitot. A 3D printer could provide opportunities for students to create mini sukkot or holiday themed cookie cutters.
Learn More about Makerspaces:
Debbie Harris is the Director of Educational Technology at Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago and blogs at http://www.museforjews.com. Reach her at deb@debharris.com
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