Getting Started
If you are new to Makerspaces, begin researching using some of these resources:
What is a Makerspace? from Makerspace.com
Makerspace Playbook from from Makerspace.com
Starting a School Makerspace from Scratch by Edutopia
Then, check out these resources for some ideas of the types of projects that might be found in a Makerspace:
Renovated Learning
Create, Collaborate, Innovate by Colleen Graves
If you are new to Makerspaces, begin researching using some of these resources:
What is a Makerspace? from Makerspace.com
Makerspace Playbook from from Makerspace.com
Starting a School Makerspace from Scratch by Edutopia
Then, check out these resources for some ideas of the types of projects that might be found in a Makerspace:
Renovated Learning
Create, Collaborate, Innovate by Colleen Graves
Below are a few tips if you are ready to begin designing your own Makerspace at your school site or in your own classroom. Most important is to design big, but start small! Also, reach out and get input from others.
Choose a Theme :
- What type of culture do you want to build in this space?
- What are the skills and knowledge you want to develop in this space?
- What do you want to call the space?
Use a Process:
- Use a system to provide project ideas and other resources for students including a website, YouTube Channel, or learning management system.
- Use the Engineering Design Process to guide the building of robots or completing engineering design challenges.
- Use Design Thinking to create empathy and guide project-based learning.
- Use a Scaffolded System of lessons or projects to build skills in computer science that introduces more complex concepts gradually before using these skills in their own project.
Design the Space:
- Consider electrical requirements
- Consider guidelines for safety
- Consider storage/shelving for projects (you will need a ton!)
- Consider storage/shelving for supplies, tools, and equipment
- Consider number of students who will use the space
- Consider the furniture and equipment that best fits the theme of the space
- Consider workflow patterns and how students will move within the space
Begin to Purchase Supplies:
Home Depot and Amazon are often go to places to purchases supplies and equipment. Here are a few places to purchase more specialized kits and equipment for Makerspaces.
STEMfinity
Robot Shop
Adafruit
The Daring librarian has also put together an Amazon list to begin your Makerspace starter kit.