makerspaces
Making is characterized by exploratory, interest-driven, and hands-on learning that incorporates arts, science, technology, and engineering. The way that adults interact with children while facilitating maker-based learning is a big deal. They can ask questions, spark interest, and push children’s thinking about experiences in the makerspace. As making expands across a range of settings, from museums and libraries to afterschool programs and schools, engaging educators in thoughtful and constructive professional learning experiences like SI is key for educational making to thrive.
We’ve worked with educators at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh to understand how SI fits into the makerspace context. Educators reflected on the techniques they use to facilitate maker activities, such as circuit blocks, sewing, and woodworking, and the different aspects of the makerspace environment that shapes interactions. We also had deep conversations about how the universal SI domains of connection, reciprocity, opportunity to grow, and inclusion fit into this unique context.
We also infuse maker-based principles into professional learning opportunities like our Simple Interactions Leadership Program. Through this work, participants can "make" aspects of their own professional development. They start by engaging in the Simple Interactions process of watching videos and reflecting on techniques applicable to their own setting. Participants also choose a growth area to improve and then try out small tests of change in their facilitation practices. To learn more about this opportunity, contact annie.mcnamara@stvincent.edu.
We’ve worked with educators at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh to understand how SI fits into the makerspace context. Educators reflected on the techniques they use to facilitate maker activities, such as circuit blocks, sewing, and woodworking, and the different aspects of the makerspace environment that shapes interactions. We also had deep conversations about how the universal SI domains of connection, reciprocity, opportunity to grow, and inclusion fit into this unique context.
We also infuse maker-based principles into professional learning opportunities like our Simple Interactions Leadership Program. Through this work, participants can "make" aspects of their own professional development. They start by engaging in the Simple Interactions process of watching videos and reflecting on techniques applicable to their own setting. Participants also choose a growth area to improve and then try out small tests of change in their facilitation practices. To learn more about this opportunity, contact annie.mcnamara@stvincent.edu.