Creating Makerspace for kids

By Brian Baptista

b.baptista@copublica.dk

Create, Cause, Assemble, Manufacture, Achieve, Invent, Generate, Produce, Craft, Build, Construct, or Generate, these are exactly what Makerspace enables. An environment where one is only limited by one’s imagination. It is an ideal space where kids can tinker, invent, and build to their desired content. They are great for fostering hands-on learning and creativity.

Here are 7 tips for creating makerspace for kids.

1- Align the space with teaching goals.
2- Establish a realistic account of approaches that the students might look into.
3- Evaluate and design group learning culture and dynamics.
4- Ensure age appropriateness.
5- Route a clear plan for tool labelling, storage and organization.
6- Ensure sufficient space.
7- Incorporate safety and security.

In Makerspace, students are entitled to the freedom to explore their interests and to come up with the projects that they would like to create. Given this freedom, they can direct their learning by delving into topics that they feel needs to learn about to make their project successful.