makerspace

7 Online Resources About Creating a #MakerSpace

A school-based makerspace is a hands-on, creative environment where students can explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and other interdisciplinary subjects. These spaces empower students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative skills while working on real-world projects. Key features are:

Tools and Equipment:
- Basic Tools: Screwdrivers, hammers, pliers, and measuring devices.
- Technology: 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC machines, and vinyl cutters.
- Electronics: Arduino kits, Raspberry Pi boards, soldering stations, and basic circuitry tools.
- Crafting Tools: Sewing machines, paper cutters, and hot glue guns.
Workstations:
- Dedicated areas for specific tasks like soldering, 3D printing, coding, or woodworking.
Materials:
- Cardboard, wood, fabric, plastics, LEDs, wires, and recyclables for prototyping and building.
Software:
- Tools for design, coding, and 3D modeling (e.g., Tinkercad, Fusion 360, Scratch, or Python IDEs).
Learning Opportunities:
- Workshops or guided projects on topics like robotics, coding, 3D modeling, and engineering principles.
- Integration with the school’s curriculum to reinforce learning in subjects like physics, math,

Here are 7 online resources to help you create a school-based MakerSpace (click here for updates on this list):

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The Maker Movement In Education

Eduporium‘s Andy Larmand is the newest contributor to Ask a Tech Teacher. He graduated from Suffolk University with a Bachelor’s degree in Print Journalism. His knowledge of and interest in both the EdTech world and the importance of a STEM education highlight the importance of inquiry-based education, DIY cultures and technology for enhanced learning as crucial 21st century activities. Here are his thoughts on ‘the Maker Movement’:

With so much of the emphasis in today’s education world focusing on the need for education reform, it can be easy to forget just what this means. True, it has long since been time to transform the classroom from a boring place of black and white textbooks to a virtual experience filled with 21^st century tools and projects. Education used to be thought of as the 8-2 in a child’s day with maybe an hour or so of homework. Now, because of modern educational technology and the emergence of afterschool clubs and supplemental activities, the demand for acquiring a full-circle education is able to be met for students everywhere.

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