Makerspace

Parents have probably heard the term "Makerspace" in conversations or on social media, and were curious or hesitant to ask about its defination or usage in education. Makerspace is a collaborative workspace or community space where people can come together to create, learn, and share ideas, with access to tools and equip,emt they might not have at home.. These include 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, woodworking tools, electronic kits, and a growing list of more. The design of a Makerspace is to foster creativity and innovation, allowing individuals of all skill levels to build projects. Makerspaces can be found in schools, libraries, and community centers, and some in independent, volunmteer driven environments.

Starting a Makerspace is fairly simple. The first order of business is to start collecting items that in most cases would be thought of as junk. Look at these three sources for collecting items:

AT HOME	AT SCHOOL	IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
Boxes of all shapes, sizes, and thicknesses (Boxes can be broken down and stored flat) toilet paper and paper towel rolls oatmeal canisters butter tubs plastic caps cartons microwave meal tubs fruit netting	Twist ties rubber bands magnets straws toothpicks coffee filters outdated or unused science and math materials recess toys (especially Legos and other building blocks or tinker toys) things other teachers or custodians want to throw away bubble wrap styrofoam broken appliances broken computers (computer parts make for very interesting details on a project)	Wood in any shape or size is a huge hit in a makerspace wood spindles PVC pipe door hinges cabinet pulls carpet samples old drapes or curtains tassel

Storing these items and properly labeling them is important. Oranization helps users get quick access to needed project items and to quickly replenish items low on inventory.

In designing and laying out your Makerspace area, collaboration is key. Take a look at this MIT designed Makerspace area, by Diane Brancazio. The limited access tool area contains equipment requiring direct adult supervision. Open access tool areas require linmited or no adult supervision. And of course the table layout in the classroom workshop areas suggest strong collaborative learning. Storage cabinets are featured throughout for the materials suggested before, and other purchased material for specialized projects.

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There are probably questions on why a Makerspace? Take a look at this video on a Makerspace in action.