OTT 232: What are the Benefits of Learning When Using Makerspace in the Classroom?
Are you tired of the same old boring classroom activities?
Well, it's time to break out the toolboxes and prepare for hands-on learning with makerspace! Makerspace is a revolutionary approach to education that allows students to unleash their creativity and develop critical thinking skills while tinkering with real-world materials. So gather your library staff, classroom teachers, and even your local community because it is time for maker space! From kindergarteners building simple machines to high schoolers designing robots, makerspace takes classrooms by storm across all grade levels. So, buckle up and prepare to embark on an exciting journey where learning becomes an adventure!
What is Makerspace and its Importance in Education
Makerspace is not just another buzzword in the education world—it is an innovative and exciting mindset that has transformed how children learn in elementary schools. Imagine a collaborative workspace where students have access to various maker equipment like various tools, materials, and technology, all aimed at fostering creativity and problem-solving skills. Makerspaces are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to engage young minds in hands-on learning experiences and bring deep literature to life with things like STEM story stations and more.
But what sets makerspaces apart from traditional classrooms? Well, it's all about the maker mindset! Students are encouraged to explore ideas, take risks, tinker with objects, and turn their imagination into reality in these spaces. By providing access to diverse makerspace resources such as 3D printers, robotics kits, electronics, and woodworking tools—to name a few—students can seamlessly dive into projects that integrate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) fields.
But don't worry if your classroom doesn't have a 3 D Printer or a laser cutter. Simple art equipment will do. Even better are recyclable materials like Legos and Play-Doh. Simple materials like popsicle sticks, cardboard, and pipe cleaners will also do the trick. No fancy equipment is necessary.
The importance of makerspaces in elementary education lies in preparing children for future careers and nurturing essential life skills. These creative hubs offer a safe environment for risk-taking without fear of failure. Students can learn by doing rather than solely relying on textbooks or lectures—a refreshing change indeed! Through collaboration with peers on group projects or troubleshooting individually when things don't go as planned, youngsters develop critical thinking abilities and resilience—an invaluable asset when facing challenges beyond the walls of a classroom. So why wait? Let's unlock the potential within every child through the magic of makerspaces!
Benefit 1: Encourages Creativity and Innovation
Being part of a community of makers can do wonders for your creativity and innovation when it comes to DIY projects. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who constantly push the boundaries and take risks can be incredibly inspiring. Kids will have access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise and be encouraged to think outside the box and develop new ideas.
Being surrounded by risk-takers in a community of makers opens up a world of possibilities. It's incredible how bolder kids become when they see others fearlessly trying new techniques or experimenting with unconventional materials. Their fearless attitude fuels their creative fire, encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and explore uncharted territories in terms of design, aesthetics, and functionality.
Additionally, being part of a community fostering creativity can lead to unexpected collaborations that spur innovation. When different minds come together, ideas flow freely, blending influences from various disciplines and perspectives. This cross-pollination leads to truly innovative solutions that are impossible individually. So embrace the DIY community – it's where creativity is nurtured, innovation thrives, and risk-taking becomes second nature!
I know what you are thinking. But how do I get all this up and running with all the other demands I have on my plate as a teacher? That's the good news. There are so many ideas for Makerspace, and I'll be sharing those in the coming weeks.
One idea is to integrate literacy into the engineering design process. Take Thanksgiving, for example. We are getting to that time of year when we think about activities we can do with Thanksgiving books and literature.
Makerspace is the perfect answer to a read-aloud extension. Try choosing books like A Turkey for Thanksgiving or Turkey Trouble. Do your regular read-aloud and then closely examine the problem in each story. Try a STEM/ Makerspace extension! Kids work through the engineering design process to solve the problems in the story. Now kids are really thinking! Plus, that gives you time to answer an email or two. (To actually work at work!)
Need a jumping-off place to encourage equal access to learning? Grab my Thanksgiving STEM story stations and bring learning to life!
Benefit 2: Develops Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills
One of the most exciting benefits of incorporating tech tools and makerspaces into our lives is that they provide a playground for problem-solving and critical thinking. In this digital era, it's no longer enough to follow safety procedures or stick to the status quo simply; we must constantly adapt and find innovative solutions. Makerspaces offer an environment where individuals can tinker, experiment, and collaborate on projects that require them to analyze problems from different angles.
Moreover, this collaborative workspace encourages individuals to think outside the box and develop creative solutions. The process of problem-solving in makerspaces often involves trial and error, which hones one's critical thinking skills. Instead of passively accepting things as they are, makers are encouraged to question existing structures and perspectives – even if it means challenging conventional wisdom. This ability to think critically allows us to tackle new problems more effectively and helps us become more adaptable in an ever-changing world. So why settle for mediocrity when you can unleash your inner problem-solver through tech tools or simple materials in your own makerspaces?
Benefit 3: Fosters Collaboration and Teamwork
One of the primary benefits of incorporating a makerspace in the elementary classroom or media center is its ability to foster collaboration and teamwork among students. It opens up a world of opportunities for them to work together, exchange ideas, and learn from one another with a collaborative design. Whether through weekly meetings where students discuss their projects and provide feedback to each other or morning meetings where they brainstorm new ideas as a team, makerspaces encourage students to collaborate and problem-solve collectively.
Furthermore, some of the best ways makerspaces provide an excellent platform for students to showcase their creations through events like maker fairs. These fairs boost their confidence and promote collaboration among different groups who come together to put on an exciting display. You don't have to have an elaborate maker faire to benefit from sharing and communicating what worked and what didn't work on a build. Hold a classroom maker museum or walk about. Students can share their expertise with others while learning from those around them—contributing not just individually but as part of a larger team. With such lively events occurring regularly, makerspaces create an environment that encourages collaboration in novel and engaging ways.
In summary, makerspaces are interactive hubs allowing students to engage collaboratively in creative projects. By promoting teamwork through activities like weekly meetings and maker fairs, students develop an appreciation for diverse perspectives and understand the power of working together towards a common goal. In this digital age where individual success often overshadows collective achievements, fostering collaboration in the elementary classroom or media center can indeed be transformative—and what better way than with the help of a vibrant makerspace?
Before you start to feel discouraged by the prospect of admin asking lots of questions about your purpose for makerspace, consider being proactive by adding makerspace to your professional development plan for the year! Tie this puppy to research, come up with a SMART goal, and there is no stopping you with all the new things you can do inside of your classroom. And don't worry if you aren't makerspace NYC; you are YOU, which is even better. Plus, I have a Makerspace PDP written just for you. The SMART goal is written, the research has been done, and the activities are evident. All you have to do is copy and paste. Grab that below.
Conclusion: The Transformative Impact of Makerspace in Education
In conclusion, it is clear that makerspaces have the power to revolutionize elementary education. By providing students with hands-on experience in a collaborative learning environment, makerspaces cultivate crucial skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. The transformative impact is evident in the increased engagement and enthusiasm among students and their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. As we continue to witness the benefits of full access makerspaces in education, schools and communities must invest in these innovative spaces. But remember, it doesn't have to take up a ton of space. I talk about overcoming the space issue in episode 111: How Not to Allow Space Define Your Makerspace in the Classroom of One Tired Teacher.
In fact, I have several episodes to help you get started in Makerspace instruction.
