When Makerspaces Meet School: Considering Cultural Designs for Learning in Makerspaces

• In Event: Challenging Formality in Complex Learning Environments

Abstract

While makerspaces have enjoyed considerable attention as sites for learning, the attention has largely been on teacher-led learning designs. However, with many school-based makerspaces providing opportunities for after school self-directed experimentation, the cultural organisation of activity in such spaces can deeply influence the kinds of learning that occurs. This paper presents the results of a five month long ethnographic investigation. It was found that, in relation to dominant cultural models reviewed, teachers and students negotiated a model that minimised teacher involvement in learning. Learning arose in interactions between human and non-human agents, requiring distinct ontological commitments which may highlight missed opportunities for researchers.

Author

• Michael Tan, National Institute of Education - Nanyang Technological University