Science 3 D's: Discovery, Design, and Development Through Makerspaces

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 12
  In Roundtable Session: Anti-Bullying, Makerspace, and the Spectrum of Teaching: Fresh Takes and Needed Interventions

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of “makerspace” pedagogies that facilitate the discovery, design and development (3Ds) of digital and tangible products for teachers and their students. The research questions focus on how educators can use makerspace pedagogies to promote inquiry, play, imagination, innovation, critical and creative thinking, problem solving and collaboration. With the provision of resources and customized professional development, teachers are introduced to innovative ideas and practices in “critical making” pedagogies. They are provided with the knowledge, skills and confidence to establish and implement a makerspace/maker culture in their schools, where learners can congregate to design, engineer, and fabricate digitally enhanced products of all kinds, both digital and tangible, and explore the uses of digital technologies in general.

Authors

• Janette Michelle Hughes, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

• Laura Morrison, University of Ontario Institute of Technology

• Stephanie Thompson, University of Ontario Institute of Technology