About This Activity
Making is a habit of mind where creativity is the first ingredient. The Makerspace is often associated with fields such as engineering (designing, prototyping, building, etc.). The concept that emerges from the maker culture is associated with Make magazine and the Maker Fairs it promotes. It is a collaborative space for creative endeavors. Makerspaces allow campers to take control of their own learning, as they are designing projects and creating with their hands. Through making, campers gain confidence in their own abilities and become engaged at deeper levels than if there were no hands-on component. Many skills can be taught in a traditional classroom setting, but they are typically learned through practice and coaching. In the Makerspace, children will learn and hone problem-solving skills. Some projects will be designed to teach a specific skill, such as using a hammer or a soldering iron. Other projects will use acquired skills for an undefined process––students can design their own outcomes, which is incredibly powerful.
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