6) Choose an airy room
We like Makerspaces with lots of natural (sun) light and windows that can be opened. Some 3D printers have HEPA filters that minimise the odour generated when printing but many do not so we always recommend you use them in a well-ventilated room. Learn more about health and safety considerations for school makerspaces.
7) Invest in expert professional development
We highly recommend investing in professional development around 3D printing, 3D design and design thinking for teachers to ensure that they have the skills and knowledge to make your Makerspace a success. Makers Empire’s products for schools come with accredited professional development, training, lesson plans and more. We also recommend having one teacher in charge of the Makerspace. He or she can then be responsible for coordinating usage by other teachers, restocking filament and other supplies, and assisting teachers with any troubleshooting.
8) Grow your community
Makerspaces are all about creative collaboration and problem-solving. So there are infinite ways to use your Makerspace to enhance or develop relationships within your school community. We love these great lesson ideas created by teachers within the Makers Empire global community.
9) Use the buddy system
Team up older students with younger ones to enhance learning and deepen engagement. The older students usually enjoy the opportunity to help the younger ones, while the younger ones love being ‘mentored’ by the older students. See this inspiring real-life example of Australian school students buddying up for improved learning outcomes.
10) Solve real-life problems within your community
Find a local person or company with a problem that needs solving. Have students design a solution to that problem and then present their ideas to their person or company. Students will love solving a real-life problem and helping others. See this real-life example of Australian school students making a clip to help their teacher’s toddler, who has cerebral palsy or this example of Canadian school students who helped people with disabilities via 3D design and 3D printing.
11) Get parents involved in learning
Having parents experience a makerspace activity is a wonderful way to encourage them to become more involved in their children’s learning. So why not schedule a makerspace activity for your annual school open day or parent-teacher night? Invite parents to take part in an activity where they create a design with their child. See this real-life example at an Australian school.
12) Create a 3D printed sculpture for your school
Your whole school community can contribute to a school sculpture created using 3D design and printing. See this real-life example of an Australian school, which created a commemorative sculpture that everyone in the school community contributed to.
As you can see, creating a successful makerspace at your school requires some thought and planning. But once you’re set up, you’ll be thrilled by the learning outcomes that can be achieved by students in a well resourced and well-run space.