How to create a

with little or no funding

MAKERSPACE

In recent years, there has been a growing trend in education to promote hands-on learning experiences that foster creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. One effective way to achieve this is by establishing a makerspace within your library.

A makerspace is a collaborative workspace that provides students with access to tools and materials to create, experiment, and innovate. This presentation includes the key considerations, benefits, implementation strategies, and potential challenges of creating a makerspace.

Objectives of the Makerspace

Promote Creativity and Innovation: Encourage

students to use their imagination to design

and create projects.

Enhance Collaboration: Foster teamwork and

communication skills through group projects

and shared resources.

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Develop Critical Thinking: Provide opportunities for problem-solving and logical reasoning through hands-on activities.

Integrate STEAM Education: Support Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) curricula through interactive learning experiences.

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Engages Different Learning Styles

Makerspaces cater to various learning preferences, allowing students to engage with concepts in multiple ways.

Benefits of a Makerspace

Encourages Lifelong Learning

By fostering curiosity and exploration, makerspaces instill a desire for continuous learning and experimentation.

Builds Technical Skills

Students gain practical skills in technology, coding, crafting, and engineering, which can be beneficial in their future education and careers.

Community Building

A makerspace can serve as a hub for students, teachers, and parents to collaborate and share their skills, ideas and projects.

Stop Making Excuses!

Implementation Strategies

Space Design:

Identify an area within the library that can be designated as the makerspace.

Create a flexible layout with zones for different activities, such as arts and crafts, technology, and collaboration.

A makerspace can be whatever you want it to be.

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Big or small,

a room or a cart

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The most important advice I can give is to just start with what you have

Resource Acquisition

• Purchase or ask for donations from on-line markets resale shops and neighborhood garage sales
• Collect materials and tools such as crafting supplies, 3D printers, robotics kits, and electronics.
• Sign up at websites like Amazon wish list and Donors Choose.
• Organize a swap meet in your school.

Staff Training and Involvement

• Train library staff and educators on how to facilitate makerspace activities.
• Encourage teachers from various disciplines to integrate makerspace projects into their curriculum.

Program Development:

• Develop a schedule for makerspace activities, including workshops, open lab times, and special events.
• Collaborate with local organizations, businesses, and artisans to host sessions or provide expertise.

Promotion and Community Engagement

• Promote the makerspace using school newsletters, social media, and community events.
• Encourage parental involvement and participation in makerspace activities.

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Challenges and Solutions

• Budget Constraints: Funding for materials and equipment can be limited. Solutions include applying for grants, seeking donations, and partnering with local businesses.

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• Space Limitations: If space is small, consider flexible furniture and stations that can be easily configured and used for multiple purposes.

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• Safety Concerns: Ensure that all tools and materials are age-appropriate and that safety protocols are clearly established and communicated.

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• Balancing Creative Freedom with Curriculum: Develop guidelines to ensure that makerspace activities align with educational objectives while allowing for creativity.

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Conclusion

Establishing a makerspace in an elementary school library can greatly enhance the educational experience for students. By providing a space for hands-on learning and collaboration, schools can cultivate a culture of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills. With careful planning and community involvement, a makerspace can become an invaluable resource for fostering lifelong learners ready to tackle the challenges of the future.

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Recommendations

• Conduct surveys among students and staff to gauge interest and gather input on desired activities and resources.
• Start small with pilot projects and expand the makerspace offerings based on feedback and observed success.
• Regularly assess and adapt the makerspace to keep it relevant and engaging for students.

By following these guidelines and considering the unique needs of the student population, an elementary school library can successfully establish a makerspace that nurtures creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/10LjBRCa5W5MFHtO88GsksypDlpM9vEciPiHiLVuX0xU/edit?usp=sharing

Gigi Michaels

Library Media Technician

Email:gigi.michaels@medford.k12.or.us

Phone:541-842-1823