Makerspaces Reflection Journal

Main Post      I honestly did not agree with many of the resources this module when it comes to what the maker movement is, and makers in general. The article "Maker Culture" summed up the themes I picked up on in the other articles well, by only describing the technology aspects of makerspaces. The articles defining the terms "Maker Culture" and "Maker Education", seemed to define the terms as a technology offshoot of DIY/crafting culture. I think this does not properly encompass what those two terms actually mean. I consider myself a maker, but prefer the physical kinds of making over computers. I am not saying maker culture does not include technology, not at all, but I think it is restrictive to exclude other kinds of making.      I think all humans are "makers", as humans have been making things for basically all of human history. I also think this technology-only approach also goes against what we have learned previously in the course. Than...

For this assignment, I went to my local makerspace to interview one of the staff members in charge of it, Amanda Gates. This makerspace is called a “Creation Station”, and is located in the downtown Sarasota library. They have 9 sewing machines, crafting materials, jewelry making supplies, 3 different button makers in different sizes, block printing, 2 Cricut machines, 3 computers, 2 3D printers, and a glow forge for wood. This makerspace can be accessed through appointments or one of their age-focused programs. They previously had open labs, but stopped because participants were too crazy with the supplies and equipment. This was a bummer as open access to equipment is what works best for me personally. I also interviewed Gates, asking 4 questions I had about local makerspaces: How do libraries get a Creation Station? I asked this as I wished my local library had this kind of resource, especially as it is in a low income neighborhood where having these free resources would be especial...

     When I think of the term "Makerspace", the first word that comes to mind (other than maker, or other words that make up the term), is "creativity". To me, a maker space should allow the "maker" to use their creativity, not just an activity where everyone's projects ends up the exact same. There is nothing wrong with these kinds of activities, and they can be a good entry point for many people, but to me, makerspaces should also be a place for free-making and creative thinking. A lot of the readings I have looked over so far talk about "cut-and-paste" approaches, which I think limits what these places can be.      I am a maker. I choose this response as I make things on a nearly daily basis. Some of the making I do for fun includes sewing, drawing, sculpting, creative writing, and organizing/labeling. I also make things while helping on my family's farm. A current example is how I am helping my dad build a pond with a waterfall from s...

  To me, makerspaces are areas organized by places of learning (such as libraries or schools) that provide the public with the tools/resources to make things. These areas may have a variety of tools, or a more focused selection. Many places seem to give their makerspaces different names to make them their own.   Most libraries I have looked at have embraced the maker movement by creating their own makerspaces (though often under a different name). My local library also hosts event in its makerspace, which can help introduce people to the idea of makerspaces (I assume many libraries do this too). Some of the more popular kinds of tools I have noticed used in makerspaces include 3D printers, electronics/circuitry, computers, domestic sewing machines, virtual reality, and general arts and crafts.   I am really glad so many places are implementing places for people to create and learn. I know I would have really benefited from something like this growing up. I do think the ge...