Now, more than ever, educators realize that their students need to be kept engaged and involved in order to learn effectively. Having hands-on experiences helps students gain a better grasp of new concepts and retain information. That’s why so many teachers are strong advocates of having collaborative spaces in schools where students can work hands-on with one another to apply the concepts they’ve learned. And a considerable number are turning to makerspaces as a solution.
What Are Makerspaces?
Makerspaces are areas where people can come together to discuss concepts, problems, or ideas while working and learning together side by side through hands-on activity. They encourage students to participate and engage in their learning instead of being bystanders. Many activities designed for a makerspace setting also encourage movement, which helps to stimulate a higher level thinking.
At a makerspace, the process of creating and learning becomes more important than the end product. Students have to call on various concepts and ideas they’ve learned across multiple subjects in order to solve the problems at hand. Inquisition, analysis, and evaluation transpire naturally. Many schools have found that this type of active learning is far more effective than traditional lecture models.
Makerspaces in Schools: What Are the Advantages?
While makerspaces can be found in a variety of settings, they are becoming increasingly common in schools. However, they are not limited to one age or subject. Students of any age or stage of life can benefit from having access to a makerspace, regardless of the subject or field they’re studying. Here are just some of the ways that makerspaces can create positive change in learning environments:
Real-world learning – Makerspaces offer students a way to apply the concepts they’re learning to real-world situations.
Critical thinking – Makerspaces give students a place where they can develop their problem solving and critical thinking skills. Students are encouraged to find their own solutions to problems instead of being told what to do.
Strong communities – In makerspaces, learners have a shared purpose, which gives them a reason to converse, cooperate, and engage with one another. In this way, makerspaces help foster relationships and build a stronger sense of community in the classroom.
Integrate technology – Today’s world is becoming increasingly dependent on technology. Mastering STEM-related concepts and skills are important for learners and can help prepare them for the future. Makerspaces are excellent for facilitating hands-on activities that relate to mathematics, science, and engineering.
For these reasons and more, makerspaces are becoming a game changer in classrooms across the country.
Activate Your Classroom
At the Supple Collection, our team specializes in creating unique solutions and furniture for schools, colleges, and libraries that promote collaboration and active learning. Contact us today to learn more about makerspaces or ways to improve your classroom design.