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Month-by-Month Schoolwide Model for Building Meaningful Makerspaces

Tyler Nelson

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Published in Makerspaces In School: A Month By Month Schoolwide Model For Building Meaningful Makerspaces

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Makerspaces are gaining popularity in schools as a way to provide students with opportunities to engage in hands-on learning, develop creativity and innovation skills, and learn about STEM concepts. However, creating a successful makerspace can be a daunting task. This month-by-month model provides a step-by-step guide to help you plan and implement a schoolwide makerspace program.

Makerspaces in School: A Month-by-Month Schoolwide Model for Building Meaningful Makerspaces

by Lacy Brejcha

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Language	:	English
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Month 1: Planning and Visioning

Establish a planning team. The team should include representatives from all levels of the school community, including administrators, teachers, students, parents, and community members.
Develop a vision for your makerspace. What are the goals you hope to achieve? How will the makerspace benefit students and the school community?
Create a budget. Determine how much money you will need to start and sustain your makerspace.
Find a location for your makerspace. The location should be central and easily accessible to students and staff.

Month 2: Design and Procurement

Design the layout of your makerspace. Consider the different types of activities that will take place in the space and how you can create a flexible and inviting environment.
Purchase equipment and materials. Based on your vision and budget, determine what equipment and materials you need to purchase.
Create a safety plan. Establish rules and procedures for using the makerspace safely.

Month 3: Professional Development

Provide professional development for teachers. Help teachers learn how to use the makerspace equipment and incorporate maker activities into their curriculum.
Create a makerspace club or after-school program. This will provide students with additional opportunities to use the makerspace and develop their skills.

Month 4: Launch and Promotion

Host a grand opening event. This will help to generate excitement and awareness for your makerspace.
Create a website and social media accounts for your makerspace. This will help to promote the space and share student projects.
Partner with community organizations. This can help to provide additional resources and support for your makerspace.

Month 5-12: Operation and Evaluation

Establish a schedule for using the makerspace. This will help to ensure that all students have access to the space.
Provide ongoing support for teachers and students. Help teachers integrate maker activities into their curriculum and provide students with guidance and mentorship.
Evaluate the effectiveness of your makerspace. Collect data and feedback to assess the impact of the space on student learning and engagement.

Building a successful makerspace takes time and effort, but it is well worth the investment. Makerspaces provide students with invaluable opportunities to learn, grow, and create. By following this month-by-month model, you can create a makerspace that will benefit your school community for years to come.