The MakerLab Project: Using Makerspace Pedagogy to Engage Preservice Science Educators in Independent Scientific Inquiry

• In Event: 61.059 - Science Teaching and Learning SIG Paper Session: Preservice Teachers

Abstract

The proposed paper shares the design of a bold new experimental approach to the preparation of preservice science educators that explores the integration of the makerspace framework and teacher education. Blending formal and informal learning environments, the “MakerLab project” applies a Makerspace conceptual framework to secondary science education preparation by implementing a discovery lab studio called the MakerLab. The MakerLab project offers a three phase learning experience (1. Preparation, 2. Investigation and 3. Transfer to Teaching) during the junior and senior years of students’ B.Ed. Secondary Science Education (SSE) degree program. The primary focus of this work is sharing the design of the MakerLab project, however findings from the first phase of a three phase case-study will also be shared.

Authors

• Judy Lemus, University of Hawaii Manoa

• Tara O'Neill, University of Hawaii - Manoa