The Maker Mindset & Philosophy
According to the manual, is a makerspace defined more by its high-tech equipment or by the mindset of the people using it?
The mindset
What are the "4Cs" of 21st-century learning that makerspaces help students develop?
Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Creativity
What is the most common location for a school makerspace, often referred to as the "hub" of the school?
The School Library (Media Center)
Instead of being the "sage on the stage," what role should the teacher or facilitator take in a makerspace?
The "guide on the side."
What is the very first step the manual recommends when building a new makerspace?
Developing a vision and getting "buy-in" from stakeholders (administrators, teachers, parents)
What does the manual describe as the "Maker Movement"?
A social movement with an artisan spirit that focuses on creating rather than consuming.
How does the manual suggest educators should view "failure" in the makerspace?
As a "learning opportunity" or a natural part of the iterative process
If a school does not have a dedicated room for a makerspace, what "mobile" solution does the manual suggest?
A Makerspace Cart
True or False: A "Spacemaker" must be an expert in all technology (like coding or 3D printing) before opening the space.
False
What is one "low-cost" way to stock a makerspace with materials like cardboard, fabric, and jars?
Community donations or "trash-to-treasure" drives
True or False: You must have 3D printers and expensive robots to be considered a true makerspace.
False
Beyond academic skills, what "soft skill" is gained when students have to work together to solve a building challenge?
Collaboration
What type of furniture is recommended to ensure the space is flexible and can be reconfigured?
Tables on wheels
What is the Spacemaker’s primary responsibility regarding the environment?
To facilitate learning and create a safe culture for discovery and risk-taking
Why is it important to "start small" rather than buying everything at once?
To see what students are actually interested in and to avoid overwhelming the facilitator
Name one of the key characteristics of a makerspace environment mentioned in the text.
Options include: community-focused, messy, social, shared tools, or a place for "tinkering."
What is the primary benefit of "tinkering" mentioned in the manual?
It encourages exploration and problem-solving without the fear of being "wrong."
Why is "vertical storage" or clear bins recommended for a makerspace?
To save space and make materials visible and accessible to students
What is one personality trait the manual suggests a Spacemaker should possess?
Options include: Curious, flexible, encouraging, or patient
Name one way the manual suggests "marketing" your makerspace to parents and the community.
Social media (Instagram/X), school newsletters, or hosting an "Open House" night
How does the manual define the transition a student makes when using a makerspace?
Moving from being a "consumer" of information/products to a "creator."
Why is "persistence" a key takeaway for students in a makerspace?
Because projects often don't work the first time, requiring students to try again.
What is a "Pop-Up Makerspace"?
A temporary makerspace set up in a hallway, cafeteria, or classroom for a short period
How should a facilitator respond when a student asks, "How do I fix this?"
By asking open-ended questions to lead the student to their own solution
Why is it important to have a "Makerspace Use Plan" or schedule?
To ensure the space is utilized effectively and doesn't just become a storage room