Designing for Play: Reflections on Creating an Immersive Free STEAM Makerspace in an Urban Community

• In Event: Reconceptualizing Schools, Teachers, Community Spaces, and Shakespeare Through Arts-Based Inquiry

Abstract

With a growing interest in makerspaces, surprisingly little consideration has been given to the notions of design and development of both the physical space and the educational content within those confines. This paper presents design challenges and solutions of creating a makerspace that can promote STEAM learning in a playful way while considering the unique needs of its learners and their community. Grounded as artists and educational designers, we explore the inquiry of designing a community-owned makerspace.

Authors

• Allison JoAnn Lester, University of Cincinnati

• Noah Glaser, Old Dominion University