STEM LAbs and
Maker Spaces
in Schools
Why and How to get started
This is NOT a Maker Space
What is a Maker Space?
WWhyWhyWhy
Why a Maker
Space?
• These spaces facilitate
authentic, hands-on,
project based learning
• They teach students how
to think critically, be
resourceful, persevere,
and problem solve.
These are skills that are difficult to teach in a
traditional classroom.
Georgia STEM Goals
•
Empower students to become innovators and technologically proficient
problem solvers
•
Ensure that all students have access to the appropriate technology
conducive to enhancing their learning experiences both in and outside the
traditional classroom
•
Increase student 21st century skills and technological literacy by providing
students with opportunities to use the technical tools of the STEM industry
•
Nurture partnerships that allow schools and the business sector to join
efforts to improve students’ STEM-career opportunities
•
Increase the number of students pursuing carers in STEM-related fields
and/or post-secondary STEM related education/training
Challenges
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Funding
Space
Mindset/Culture
Logistics
Project planning
Resources
• Local Maker Spaces
• Other Teachers - in
Robotics, Industrial
Arts, Fine Arts
• Parents
• Community
Members/Businesses
Essential Elements
• Faculty leadership, Administrative
support
• Building a Culture of invention and
experimentation
• Thoughtful marketing of the program
internally and externally
• Guidance and reinforcement of deadlines
with student-led projects.
Running the Space
• Supervision
• Scheduling
• Purchasing the right
tools and equipment
• Training and careful
supervision of tools
Best Practices
• Get the minimum gear
• Create achievable projects for
students/faculty
• Actively share with the community to
build awareness and enthusiasm.
Favorite Activities
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Solving problems in the community
Team-based challenges
Take-aparts
Upcycling projects
Robotics
Making in
Action
Panel Discussion
Beverly Lowe
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Member of the Cobb Maker Station on Historic Marietta Square
Spends her days as an Office Manager
As a mom, she is eager to encourage parents to be involved in helping
their children learn at every opportunity.
Makey Makey project was featured on Instructables.com.
Tanju Bayramoglu
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Maker, Father, Mechanical Engineer & Project Manager.
Member of the Cobb Maker Station on Historic Marietta Square
Helping Awtrey Middle School start their Maker Space
Grace A. Belangia
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Greater Augusta Innovation Academy
The Clubhouse - Augusta Maker Space
Speaker at MakerCon San Francisco, MakerFaire New York and SXSW
For more Information:
• MAKE Magazine - makezine.com (many
other resources available through MAKE)
• STEM-Engine - stem-engine.com - curated
list of resources and projects
• K-12 Fab Labs and Makerspaces - Google
Group
• Georgia DOE STEM Initiatives stemgeorgia.org
• Georgia Tech Invention Studio –
inventionstudio.gatech.edu
Atlanta Maker Faire
Education Conference
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October 3-4, 2015
Downtown Decatur
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