StorageĪ Makerspace has the potential to become a very messy and cluttered space. Explore what tools you want your students to have access to. Will your students need hammer and nails, wood, cardboard, glue, screwdrivers, 3D printers, computers, etc.? Having the right tools available to your students is key. Think about what you want students to be able to do in the MakerSpace and the tools they will need for this to happen. This is a great opportunity to discuss waste and recycling with your students as well, so you can make sure you have responsible makers! 5. Making can be a messy process! As students work through the design process they will be continually reiterating their designs so have some big open mouth bins handy. Extension cords are an option but remember that too many can create a safety hazard. It is important that students have easy to access electrical power points so they can plug in their laptops, tablets, or other making tools. Creating dedicated ‘hot desks’ where students can work with tools and discussion areas with whiteboards and post-it notes to facilitate design thinking are excellent additions to any Makerspace. Movable furniture is a great addition to a Makerspace. Provide areas where students can work comfortably on their own or in teams.
#SET UP KIT KAT 3DS FULL#
Remember that this room will be full of noise and discussion! 2. Set aside dedicated space or room that all students at your school can access and work on their maker projects. Here are 7 essential tips to help you start your Makerspace right: 1.
Great classroom teachers are the key to getting students thinking and making in Makerspaces. But your Makerspace will only be as good as the planning and implementation that sits behind it. So a makerspace would be a wonderful addition to your school for both students and teachers. T he research study also showed that teachers became more comfortable with technology, and more collaborative and flexible in their teaching. The recently published research study report revealed that s tudents were highly engaged with the 3D technology, and the idea of solving genuine design challenges – it helped boost their confidence and resilience when dealing with setbacks, particularly for those less capable students. The research project focused on the impact of maker pedagogies through the provision of Makers Empire’s Learning by Design course and the use of Makers Empire’s 3D modelling and printing tools. Plus, there is now clear evidence that makerspaces can be highly effective at developing children’s creativity, critical thinking, Design Thinking and digital skills.įrom mid 2017 to mid 2018, Macquarie University’s Department of Educational Studies partnered with the NSW Department of Education, three NSW schools and Makers Empire for a research project on maker pedagogy in primary schools. Students love the practical experience of creating and problem-solving that goes into making. Makerspaces are an awesome way to engage students in hands-on learning through making. Keen to set up a successful Makerspace for your school?