According to Makerspace for Education.com, Makerspace is a place where young people have an opportunity to explore their own interests; learn to use tools and materials, both physical and virtual; and develop creative projects" (citation). Makerspace in a classroom can be a section of a room or even a movable cart. Makerspace really focuses on the ideas of constructionism and constructivism coming from the work of Seymour Papert. Constructivism is the theory of learning based on experience and observation. Through experience and reflecting on your experiences individuals construct their own knowledge and understand the world around them. (Roffey).
A makerspace can be as simple or complex as desired. In my research, I found examples of a very complex set up and then ones that were on rolling carts. While each looked physically different they all achieved the same goal. They gave students an opportunity to tinker and build create using their own imagination.
Possible supplies for a Makerspace.
*Cardboard
*empty container
*glue
*bottle caps
*pens/pencils
Taking this into account I found myself wondering how to apply makerspace ideas into preschool and even toddler classrooms. How can I set up a section of our classroom that allows 3-4-year-olds to explore materials in a makerspace like space? I think the key to this is to start with the idea of tinkering. In addition to providing a space to tinker, makerspace would also provide an opportunity for the kids to collaborate with each other to create projects. According to learningchildblog.com if young children have a makerspace there are key responsibilities and roles for the teachers.
- Helping children to problem-solving by asking open-ended questions
- Give plenty of time to design, build, and test
- Help children fix mistakes without taking over their project
Roffey, T. (n.d.). Makerspace for Education. Retrieved February 13, 2020, from http://www.makerspaceforeducation.com
(2017, September 11). Retrieved from https://learningchildblog.com/2017/09/11/makerspaces-in-early-childhood-settings/
Roffey, T., Sverko, C., & Therien, J. (2016, April 3). Makerspace: Curriculum Guide. Retrieved February 13, 2020, from http://www.makerspaceforeducation.com/uploads/4/1/6/4/41640463/makerspace_for_education_curriculum_guide.pdf
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