Blog Post #8 Makerspaces

Based on all the reading this week, I took away how makerspaces are game-changers for learning for everyone. They provide that authentic and hands-on learning experiences that children need these days. They provide play which is so important to kids. Lauren Britton spoke on how someone more engaged in a playful area will learn more. The user will be taking the learning upon themselves so it will build some independence instead of always telling them what is going on. They will learn best through their creativity. Most people would just consider that we go to the library to research information and take in all the learning. I loved when Dr. Moorefield-Lang said "Libraries don't have to be a space where we are only absorbing information. Makerspaces allow us to create." It will vary for each community and their needs. Dr. Moorefield-Lang's lecture mentioned how there are high and low tech options for makerspaces to make it affordable for everyone. 

Image from: colleengraves.org
Image description: It shows some tinker tools from the blog Create, Collaborate, and Innovate.


Maker spaces can still be possible in a library. Create, Collaborate, and Innovate is a great blog speaking out on how the makerspace can be an extension to the library. If you have a makerspace area separate then that will allow you to keep your library time still flowing compared to the tinkering of the makerspace. The set up of the library also matters to keep things going. Colleen Graves spoke on a method called the tapestry. The tapestry spot of the library help students to do the following: read, learn, make, study, and research. Colleen shared multiple lessons for stem learning at home for children to get started. The area does not have to include that much to get started. The great thing about makerspaces is how they are perfect for all age ranges and they do not require so much fancy tools. If you're looking to get started then cardboard boxes, paper towel tubes, old toys, and brushes are some items that people can easily ask their community for help with.

References

Britton, L. (2012). The makings of maker spaces, part 1: Space for creation, not just consumption. The Digital Shift. Retrieved November 4, 2022, from http://www.thedigitalshift.com/2012/10/public-services/the-makings-of-maker-spaces-part-1-space-for-creation-not-just-consumption/

Gravescolleen, /. (2016, March 14). A library and a Makerspace. Create, Collaborate, Innovate. Retrieved November 4, 2022, from https://colleengraves.org/2016/03/14/library-makerspace/

Makerspace tools. Create, Collaborate, Innovate. (2017, May 11). Retrieved November 4, 2022, from https://colleengraves.org/makerspace-tools/



Comments

  1. Carson McCallumNovember 4, 2022 at 10:04 PM

    I don't recall a learning experience from the library (or even the classroom if I'm honest) that compares with the makerspaces of today. I'm wildly impressed by those makerspaces that incorporate 3D printers but the quality of the tech does not determine the effectiveness of the space. The choice to learn is one of the most important decisions a person can make and I think that making decisions to learn independently and creatively early in life is important for generating a life-long love and interest in learning. I like the idea of a separate makerspace within the library. Thank you for sharing this blog! I like that it as specific reviews of maker tools. Something like this will be very useful as a librarian for determining what the best tool to incorporate into the library might be.

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  2. FannieB4Books Future School LibrarianNovember 6, 2022 at 9:45 AM

    Hello Tiffany!
    I think one of the most common misconceptions of a MakerSpace is that technology needs to be a part of the space, but just as Carson said in her comment that the quality of the technology doesn't have to be a determining factor of the space itself. Also, your suggestion about getting simple supplied resources to create a space from the community is great! Even as a teacher when it comes to making an activity fun for all asking the community to get involved whether through donations or volunteering their time is an effective, positive option! Thank you for sharing!

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