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February 22, 2019

Children are Born Powerless - Making Something Gives Them Power

In the journey from infant to adult, the brain of a child is transformed by experiences. Some are accidental, some intentional. Parents are the original teachers; siblings and environment too. But schools play a critical role. The interplay of formal curriculum and the development of a child’s sense of self is the subject of research at Harvard’s Agency by Design Project. Agency is a measure of how ‘in control’ of their lives youth feel. I believe it is related to hope (what will happen in the future) and power (what can I do about it now.) I’ve thought a lot...

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January 29, 2019

Elements of a Good Maker Project

Once a school has a makerspace, the stage has been set for maker projects that range in both complexity and content. From making a paper circuit to laser cutting awards for an upcoming event, every good maker project has some elements in common. 1. Relevance – Student choice and voice are an essential part of the maker movement because students are inherently more interested in something connected to their own lives and personal experiences. Relevance can also be defined by its impact. How is what they are making going to impact the school, community, and classroom? 2. Intensity – Maker...

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January 7, 2019

The Brain Science of Making

In a time where every moment in the classroom must be tied to academic standards, testing, and preparing students for a career, where does making fit? As I have traveled across Indiana, I have met many educators that think of making and makerspaces as an “extra” thing to do – whether it be a treat for students after an assignment is completed or a visit to a makerspace on the day before winter break. Rather than an occasional learning “treat”, I have come to see making and makerspaces as a necessary part of learning. From watching students create their own...

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January 3, 2019

New Year's Resolution - Make More

As we start 2019, what are your professional goals? We invite you to Make More by engaging with 1st Maker Space to design, build, or sustain a makerspace at your school or in your community. Interested in making but not sure where to start? 1st Maker Space can help! We specialize procuring maker equipment and products, designing and building customized furniture, and Indiana standards-aligned making curriculum and professional development. 5 Ways to Get Started as a Maker: 1. Check out the 1st Maker Space Webpage for books, articles, and research pages that show the “why” behind the maker movement in...

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