Last week’s classroom presentation in my EC&I 833 course was on coding and makerspaces, and let me tell you, I was expecting it to be a boring session because I have never been much interested in Coding and makerspace wasn’t a very familiar term for me. And guess what- it left me curious !!
So, what’s the buzz about coding? Well, I realized that my thoughts were Null and Void and that coding isn’t just for the tech gurus or future computer scientists; it’s a tool that can help all students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and perseverance. I was pleasantly surprised to discover how coding can be integrated into everyday learning, making complex concepts come to life in a fun and interactive way. The interesting examples in the class presentation were Ozobots. I found out that these tiny robots help students develop an IQ for coding by using colored pens to develop logical and sequential set of commands to create storylines that the Ozobots would act out through movement. It sounded like a hands-on way for students to see the real-world applications of coding.
And then: I was bowled over by makerspaces. Makerspaces have become a hot topic in education. While not a new concept, makerspaces are gaining traction for the many benefits they provide students as these spaces are integrated into classrooms and schools. Designed to challenge students to create and learn through hands-on, personalized experiences throughout elementary, middle, and high school, here are a few of the many benefits of makerspaces: In recent years, makerspaces have become increasingly popular worldwide, thanks to the rise of the maker movement. The recommended reading from the session (The role of makerspaces in innovation processes: an exploratory study) was really interesting and educated me too. This movement began with the whole DIY and Hacks culture and has made digital fabrication tools accessible to a wide range of people. Makerspaces, also known as Fablabs or hackerspaces, are physical places where people can access shared tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, woodworking and metalworking tools, and microcontrollers. Those who use these spaces are called makers.
It is a culture of collaboration, curiosity, experimenting and learning through trial and error. I feel the result of all this has to be some form of learning, some outcome and sometimes an invention that can revolutionize the world, make it better, happier in some way. Additionally It also teaches some values like: taking failure in stride: In experimentation, testing, evaluating, and modifying are part of the process. Participants learn how to make failure into a learning experience and not become discouraged or frustrated when something doesn’t go as planned.
This University’s website and illustrations were very attractive and interesting to me. It reflects that in Makerspaces People have showcased their creativity and capabilities by developing innovative products, such as the first consumer 3D printer and smartphone-based payment devices. Notably, during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, makers stepped up to address the urgent need for medical supplies
To me one of the most fascinating tools in our makerspace is the 3D printer. Did you know that 3D printers have been used to create prosthetic limbs, build houses, and even print food? It’s incredible to think about the possibilities that this technology opens up for students! In fact, NASA has used 3D printers to create tools and parts in space, revolutionizing how astronauts can repair and maintain equipment during missions.
However, it’s not all smooth sailing. Some challenges like limited time, resources, and the fear of not being an expert in coding, society pressure in different forms etc will always be there. But here’s the thing I’ve learned after knowing Coding; makespaces: I don’t have to know it all. It’s okay to lean on resources and collaborate with students to navigate the world of coding and makerspaces.
And lastly I must share one video on makerspace that was so interesting
Reference
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/radm.12594
