Ngā Matapakinga | Discussion

In this video, Janette Hughes (Faculty of Education at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology) talks about her research looking at the impact of bringing a Makerspace culture/pedagogy - an informal learning approach into a traditionally formal learning environment, with a particular focus on STEAM (with a predominantly science focus).

The project has a focus on facilitating development of 21st C skills and competencies (collaboration, problem solving, team work) in a passion-based learning model/framework, with links to the curriculum; in response to personalised needs. Janette also talks about the logistical strategies, teacher capability and organisational conditions to help make this work. The results so far are more anecdotal, but teachers are already seeing improvements in attendance, attitude and engagement.

Are there issues, tensions, concerns in this space? You bet! But having a focus cross-curricula, while bringing in the ‘e’ (electronic tools) is proving to make sense, however there are issues around access and equity to be addressed as well.

Are you trialing Makerspace pedagogies/approaches at your school? What the tensions or issues so far and how are you considering/addressing these? We'd love to hear more.