We took an amazing Maker course this summer with a colleague, Gregg Galati. Lucie deLaBruere’s Create, Make, Learn introduced us to the emerging MakerSpace (aka FabLab & Hackerspace) phenomenon. We explored 3D printing, eTextiles, soldering, coding, laser cutting, toy hacking, building circuits and much, much more!
As part of the class we were able to create a kit to get our MakerSpace started. We decided to get the more expensive electronics in our kit and purchase eTextiles, LED lights, motors and other #hackerspace essentials through our classroom budgets.
We started with what we considered the most important item: a 3D printer. We chose the Makerbot Replicator Mini. This more affordable 3D printer seemed like a good place to start fabricating material during our Genius Hour. We are excited to learn with our students the potential of this new tool. We will do our best not to caught up in the “Keychain Syndrome” (Invent to Learn ch7).
Both 5th grade classes will have an Arduino Explorer kit to explore more complex electronic circuitry. We all will have a MakeyMakey and LittleBits kits, too.
We also have LINX kits for our makerspaces. Our students will be able to create robots, vehicles, and structures with wood. LINX kits include safety saws and drills designed specifically for upper elementary students. Students use 1cm x 1cm balsa wood sticks (40cm), 3/16″ dowels and wheels for their constructions.
