Maker Space: Learning by Creating
In modern learning, much emphasis is placed on self-directed and practice-oriented learning theories such as constructionism and constructivism which hold that learners are able to construct knowledge and wisdom for themselves. Instrumental in this is the creation of suitable environments in which students actively practice critical inquiry and problem-solving skills that are crucial to helping them to “construct” meanings of their own based on prior knowledge.
To “spoon-feed” students knowledge under conventional teaching methods does not help to create an active learning environment. Unlike self-directed learning, a learner seeks knowledge individually by tapping into information and communication technologies. What they want most, though, is experience. And so this is where “maker space” has emerged as a powerful learning environment to support innovators as they pursue excellence.
Situ Studio is commissioned by the New York Hall of Science to create a ‘maker space’
within the iconic Central Pavilion where visitors take a hands-on approach to learning scientific concepts.
“Maker space” is an open public workshop. It draws in people with the same interests and helps them to share their knowledge and experiences, or to collaborate on a group project and bring it to life. The facility supplies makers, entrepreneurs and artists with the tools and equipment they need to complete projects or develop prototype products. It may also offer technical advice and assistance from experts in particular fields.
In other countries, maker spaces are run by governmental agencies or universities and, for a reasonable charge, can be accessed by community members who get the opportunity to use tools and equipment that are too expensive or specialized for them to have in their homes. Some spaces are privately owned and operate for commercial purposes. This latter group offers training sessions in the use of tools and equipment, or workshops to create specific items or products.
Westport Public Library and Detroit Public Library
In the United States, public libraries have adapted this trend of modern learning by setting aside space for creation and innovation. Among them are Westport Public Library in Westport Connecticut which adopts as a major theme housing design; Detroit Public Library which is home to a teen/young adult-focused maker space on science, technology, engineering, and math; and the Institute of Museum and Library Services which emphasizes cultural issues and community engagement.
In Thailand, commercial maker spaces emerged a few years ago. For example, there is Bangkok Makerspace in Bangkok’s Phra Khanong area, Maker Zoo in Sukhumvit, Home of Maker at Fortune Town Shopping Mall, and Chiang Mai Maker Club in Chiang Mai’s San Kamphaeng district. A university-run maker space, KX: KMUTT Knowledge Xchange, which is located near Krung Thonburi BTS skytrain station, will soon open to the public.
Nong Kim, a Maker Zoo customer, works on a rubber band turret
which uses a joystick to control directions and firing.
คลิกที่นี่ เพื่อติดตามอ่านเนื้อหาฉบับเต็มและดาวน์โหลดหนังสือ “เต็มสิบ” 10 ปีทีเคพาร์ค : 1 ทศวรรษการอ่านของสังคมไทย Information Sources
- 7 Things You Should Know about Makerspace จากเว็บไซต์ http://net.educause.edu
- A Librarian’s Guide to Makerspaces: 16 Resources จากเว็บไซต์ http://oedb.org
- The Makings of Maker Spaces, Part 1: Space for Creation, Not Just Consumption จากเว็บไซต์ www.thedigitalshift.com
- How to Make a Makerspace จากเว็บไซต์ www.tpemagazine.com
- 2014 ความเคลื่อนไหว Maker Space ในไทย จากเว็บไซต์ www.myconfix.com
Illustration Sources
- www.thedigitalshift.com
- www.situstudio.com
- www.makerzoo.co
