Boosting School Spirit with MakerSpace Challenges

Outline

Workshop Outline: Boosting School Spirit with Makerspace

Introduction (3-5 minutes)
Brief overview of the presenters and their experience with the makerspace project.
Highlight the goals and objectives of the workshop.

Video Presentation (5 minutes)
Show a captivating video that showcases the makerspace, student experiences, and activities throughout the 24-25 school year.

Emphasize the positive impact of the makerspace on school spirit and student engagement.

Digital Book Presentation (5 minutes)
Share the Book Creator digital book, which provides detailed information about the project, including photos of student projects and explanations of each activity.

Highlight key takeaways and lessons learned from the implementation.

Q&A Session (5 minutes)
Open the floor for questions and discussion related to the makerspace project, its implementation, and potential challenges.

Hands-On Activity (10 minutes)
Guide participants through a lo-tech project, such as creating paper circuit flashlights.

Provide necessary materials and instructions.
Offer the possibility of a hi-tech take-away activity (e.g., 3D wood puzzle created with our Xtool M1 (cut prior to conference)) based on time and resources.

Conclusion (5 minutes)
Summarize the key points discussed in the workshop.
Encourage participants to explore the potential of makerspaces in their own schools or communities.
Provide resources or contact information for further support.

*Outline repeated for a Playground activity. If this becomes another format, we would adjust to add/reduce time and content/discussion highlighting key elements or diving deeper.

Supporting research

Andrews, M. E., Borrego, M., & Boklage, A. (2021). Self-efficacy and belonging: The impact of a University Makerspace. International Journal of STEM Education, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40594-021-00285-0

Martinez, S., & Stager, G. (2021, May 10). The Maker Movement: A Learning Revolution. ISTE Learning Library. September 18, 2024, https://iste.org/blog/The-maker-movement-A-learning-revolution

Niehoff , K. (2024, January 4). School spirit is the defining difference in high school sports. NFHS. https://www.nfhs.org/articles/school-spirit-is-the-defining-difference-in-high-school-sports/