What is a MakerSpace?
A place where people can invent, create and collaborate using information, resources, and tools, all done through playing, tinkering, and exploration.
When I first saw the Learning Commons at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, I saw an amazing space with great potential. Having maker-designed a number of LC spaces previous to SEAS, the vision was instant and very clear. What I thought was needed was micro spaces. Areas were groups of students and/or staff could work collaboratively on a project or activity without disrupting each other. The size of the room was perfect for this design.
Alexa, their current Library Tech, was keen to get started. She too could see the potential but like many, the task seemed huge and overwhelming for just one person. What she needed to know was that she wasn’t alone. The staff had already put together 4 portable MakerStations - Robotics, Lego, Invention and Audiovisual. All were loaded with perfect resources and ready to roll. We had a plan and with some assistance and muscle we were ready to dig in.
Books were moved and grouped together in common areas. Teacher resources were moved to a more out of the way space were staff could work collaboratively in private, close to the needed materials. Shelves were arranged to make area dividers. Tables were moved out. Too much furniture can impede with the need for open spaces that play, tinkering and exploration require. The furniture that was kept was set up in such a way that is was flexible to allow for large group meetings or small separate work spaces. In 6 hours...Voila...a new space that met all of the needs of the staff, students, Learning Commons and MakerSpace.
Thank you for letting me be a part of your Maker transformation journey.
Michelle Sherwin
(Library Tech at Our Lady of Peace and St. Luke's Ottawa)
(Library Tech at Our Lady of Peace and St. Luke's Ottawa)
BEFORE
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