23: 5 Reasons Every Classroom Needs a Makerspace

Send us Fan MailOne Tired Teacher Episode 23: 5 Reasons EVERY Classroom Needs a MakerspaceMakerspace is a rapidly growing trend in schools across the country. Most makerspaces can exist in Media Centers or Libraries. However, teachers can utilize the power of makerspace in their classrooms, as well. So why not have a makerspace in your classroom?Today, on One Tired Teacher I share my adventures creating a makerspace in a media center that needed a 911 makeover. While finding so much value in creating a makerspace in the media center, I realized that all classrooms should have a makerspace, as well.What is a Makerspace?A makerspace is a place where students can gather to create, invent, tinker, explore, and discover using a variety of tools and materials. This can be an astonishing place to think and to learn!Highlights From the ShowMakerspaces come in all shapes and sizes, but they all serve as a gathering point for tools, projects, mentors, and expertise. A collection of tools does not define a Makerspace. Rather, we define it by what it enables: Making~The Makerspace PlaybookI feel like this happens by accident. I love moments when kids are learning, and they don’t even realize it! Yes, metacognitive thinking is vital, but sometimes you have to hook them. Makerspaces do that. They draw kids in. Kids want to think critically, and problem solve. They love being challenged when it feels like play. Makerspaces haven’t integrated into the classroom, as much as I think it should. Makerspace can be anything. And that is the beauty of it. There are no limits. It is a wonder of discovery. THAT should be happening in all classrooms.Makerspace mixes all aspects of STEM- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math and sprinkles it with hands-on experiences, imagination, and discovery. It truly can be engaging to the senses.Motivating children who don't love to learn is one of my favorite reasons for why classrooms deserve to have a Makerspace. Children have become reluctant learners. Their natural curiosity makes them a lover of learning. Yet, sometimes this love is stifled in the way in which learning is presented and Support the show🌿 Teachers, you can’t pour from an empty cup — but with the Sub Survival System for teachers in the classroom, you’ll never have to panic when you need a day off from school. Ready-to-go sub plans designed by a teacher who’s been there. Because rest isn’t a luxury — it’s part of the job. 👉 [Explore the Sub Survival System on TpT]Subscribe and Review:Are you subscribed to my podcast? If you’re not, I want to encourage you to do that today. Click here for iTunes.Now, if you’re feeling extra loving, I would be really grateful if you left me a review. Click here to leave a review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review.”  Thank you!