It's almost time! I've decided to establish a MakerSpace in my elementary school library. My students need the opportunity to explore and learn. They need a creative outlet.
As October fast approaches preparation time is running out. I’ve promised my students that we’ll start Maker Mondays on October 12.
The kickoff for our MakerSpace is our participation in the Global Cardboard Challenge. We are planning to make a zoo - one great evening to get those creative juices flowing and show my students that anything is possible.
(The Global Cardboard Challenge started right here at Caine’s Arcade. If you have never seen this video it is a must-see. It will make your day.)
Through extensive reading, webinars, networking and working with my Home & School organization I have a good idea of what I need to get started. I’ve seen and heard what works and what doesn’t and have some great ideas of systems to put in place right from the start. I’ve got a plan to control the number of students, gather information from students, and organize materials. I’ve ordered the few supplies my budget allows and put the word out for donations. I’ve decided which of the many stations to use at the start.
Reading, research and reality tell me to expect some failures. I’ve never done this before, and the school hasn’t attempted anything this unstructured before. I’m getting more nervous with each box that arrives – Strawbees? Laser Pegs? Makedo Tools? Will students really know what to do with these?
Unfortunately, my first failure might be in sight. The interest my students have shown in the idea of the Cardboard Challenge hasn’t translated into RSVPs. I have one more week to try and get kids excited. Then we’ll move on to the next new thing.
As October fast approaches preparation time is running out. I’ve promised my students that we’ll start Maker Mondays on October 12.
The kickoff for our MakerSpace is our participation in the Global Cardboard Challenge. We are planning to make a zoo - one great evening to get those creative juices flowing and show my students that anything is possible.
(The Global Cardboard Challenge started right here at Caine’s Arcade. If you have never seen this video it is a must-see. It will make your day.)
Through extensive reading, webinars, networking and working with my Home & School organization I have a good idea of what I need to get started. I’ve seen and heard what works and what doesn’t and have some great ideas of systems to put in place right from the start. I’ve got a plan to control the number of students, gather information from students, and organize materials. I’ve ordered the few supplies my budget allows and put the word out for donations. I’ve decided which of the many stations to use at the start.
Reading, research and reality tell me to expect some failures. I’ve never done this before, and the school hasn’t attempted anything this unstructured before. I’m getting more nervous with each box that arrives – Strawbees? Laser Pegs? Makedo Tools? Will students really know what to do with these?
Unfortunately, my first failure might be in sight. The interest my students have shown in the idea of the Cardboard Challenge hasn’t translated into RSVPs. I have one more week to try and get kids excited. Then we’ll move on to the next new thing.