WHAT IS A MAKERSPACE?
A ONE MINUTE EXPLANATION
Really, makerspaces are not a new idea. For as long as people have been around, people have been creating, inventing and tinkering. A makerspace isn't STEM, or STEAM or arts and crafts but it does involve a bit of all of these. A makerspace is a hands on, collaborative space where people gather to make, invent, experiment, tinker, learn, problem solve and share. What sets makerspaces apart from STEM and STEAM is that makerspaces involve the design process to create solutions to real world problems (this is where the art comes in according to Wik and Wilkes) and that the challenges do not need to be related to the sciences or engineering. The end result of maker projects is a product rather than a service or event according to John Spencer.
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Makerspaces are stocked with a variety of materials and tools that range from no or low tech to high tech. While makerspaces were first found in libraries and museums they have found their way into schools because of the benefits seen in students who use the makerspaces.
Explore a variety of makerspaces from around the web. Click on the links below.
THEREÂ ARE MANY TYPES OF MAKERSPACES
From simple to complex, from a whole room to a cart.  Not all makerspaces are the same.
MAKERSPACEÂ CART
Need a mobile makerspace to share with a colleague? Or, a makerspace that takes up very little room? Try a cart!
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MAKER STATIONS
Maker stations are easily stored away on shelves or cupboards until you need them.
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•Mrs. J's Library has Circulating Maker Kits
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SMALLER MAKERSPACES (WITHINÂ CLASSROOMS OR LIBRARIES)
Small spaces devoted to makerspaces. Find inspiration below!
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•Ashley Schmidt uses a bulletin board and table to create her makerspace.
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•Mrs. Byrd's Kindergarten makerspace
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•Library Patch shows her process of turning a few tables into a makerspace.
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LARGERÂ MAKERSPACES (DEDICATED ROOMS)
Rooms and corner devoted to makerspaces. Find inspiration below.
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•Brooke Brown gives a tour of her incredible makerspace classroom.
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•Miss Tech Queen gives advice on starting a school makerspace and gives a look at hers.
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