Website: Rayleigh Makerspace. My final vision project (makerspace blog) will be an on-going project and is something I will continue to work and contribute on until my goals are complete. Through this course, inquiry readings and personal conversations, I have developed a passion for makerspaces and maker projects. I've also curated a number of "maker" educators on Twitter (see Resources on Makerspace website) and the makerspace hashtag. Developing a makerspace PLN will continue. I enjoy reviewing educators' experiences and project outcomes.
Originally, my big goal is the development of mini-maker stations with my classroom and school library. To create a buzz, I thought it would be best to desgin one "maker" project. I would like the first project to be designed in such a way to promote critical thinking skills and reflection. Once the initial project is complete and I had time to promote it with my staff, I will advocate to my PAC to help fund maker stations. This will be a long term process; I'm looking at a 1-2 year goal to purchase suitable resources that engages deep thinking learning (e.g. LEGO and robotics). I have to remember that "maker" projects do not have to be costly. While curating research, some authors suggested simple materials such as cardboard, recyclables and most importantly, duct tape. Hence, why I will be starting with a cardboard challenge.
I am saddened, at this point in time, that I could not create an iMovie introduction on maker projects and makerspaces for my staff. This is something I need to accomplish while working on the initial project. My administrator has reviewed my Makerspace website and likes the overall simplicity of it. There has been small discussion to give me release time to view maker projects in other schools. I want to heighten my pedagogical beliefs. With the support of my administrator and observing other classrooms, I able to grow.
This whole experience has changed who I am as a teacher and how I see my role in the classroom. It has forced me to see that learning can happen in many different forms, not from a curricular standpoint, but rather from a creative one. "Making" allows students to be passionate about what they create. It establishes empathy and allows for social collaboration to improve.
**Note: a recent conversation with a colleague has addressed another maker project. We want our two classes to create baskets for the local food bank. What a plethora of emotions. It will be great for our students to give back to the community.**
Makerspaces has the potential for others to see the importance of the school library. It's like the ripples from a stone thrown into a pond. Once something important happens, it will lead to change. I see this as being an important advocacy piece for the school library. It could lead to a full-time teacher librarian (return to 2002 language) and the establishment of a library learning commons. Makerspaces could spawn school clubs...the introduction of STEM and coding. I can't wait for change to happen. Makerspaces at my school could lead to an undiscovered country. The future of student and teacher creativity awaits.