Makerspaces

Makerspaces have gained popularity over the last decade or so. If you have visited a public or school library in the past few years then you probably have seen space dedicated to making and creating. Makerspaces focus on students using whatever their imagination can come up with to solve real-world problems. Students have to use problem-solving skills in hands-on situations to create their prototypes. The goal is not for students to easily find a solution but to be able to work through their mistakes further developing their critical thinking skills. The integration of technology into makerspaces is also a hallmark of the concept. Proponents of the program talk about the access to technology for students in rural and low-income being a positive result of makerspaces. Makerspaces typically have 3-D printers, laser cutters, robots, iPads, and computers. Makerspaces are not a one model fits all type of program. When developing your own makerspace program research says that adapting and changing as technology changes is important to sustaining a program. When first building a makerspace program having the budget to provide the materials needed could be a challenge. In the article by Jones, it is suggested that you use parents and the community as resources. Having materials donated can help to start and grow a makerspace. Grants are another great way to secure funding for the technology needed. If you are looking for a way to promote critical thinking skills and creativity then a makerspace program might be the right program for you. 

Einarsson, Á. M. (2021). Sustaining Library Makerspaces: Perspectives on Participation,  

        Expertise,  and Embeddedness. Library Quarterly, 91(2), 172–189. https://doi- 

        org.ezproxy.shsu.edu/10.1086/713050 

 

Freeman, A., Adams Becker, S., Cummins, M., Davis, A., and Hall Giesinger, C. (2017).

                 NMC/CoSN Horizon Report: 2017 K–12 Edition. Austin, Texas: The New Media                   

                 Consortium.

JONES, T. (2020). Making Makerspaces More Functional and Sustainable. Teacher Librarian, 

        48(2), 44–46.

Moorefield-Lang, H., & Dubnjakovic, A. (2020). Factors Influencing Intention to Introduce 

        Accessibility in Makerspace Planning and Implementation. School Libraries Worldwide, 

        26(2), 14–26. https://doi-org.ezproxy.shsu.edu/10.14265.26.2.002