Can We Make It? Yes We Can!

Overview

To our surprise, this concept of constructionism and maker mindsets is not a new one in the educational domain, however we don’t usually see it in this way. Maker mindset relates very similarly to experiential learning where students get involved and learn by doing (Dougherty, 2015). Students can use this concept in schooling to express themselves through their creations by working through creativity and making. Allowing for activities which work on this concept of makerspaces does not have to be difficult or expensive either. We can teach our kids these concepts by using simple things found around the house (See image below).

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Classroom Implementation:

Makerspaces can be incredibly beneficial to classrooms as they work on the premises of collaboration and problem solving. Even if we as the teacher may feel confused or frustrated with our technology makerspaces, students will deeply engage and will be able to use these experiences in many different areas of their life. Students also get a sense of empowerment when they have these experiences as they create things they create things they never thought they could (Donaldson, 2014). Using makerspaces in your classroom encourages computational and creative thinking as students solve problems and collaborate with hands on activities which will allow the students to be engaged in their curriculum units. 

A really simple technological way to begin your study of constructionism is using the Creative Coder Kit. I was able to experience this technology and have a play around with coding it the kit. Students will again get this idea of coding through this kit by being able to code the lights within the watch. Allow students to play around with the coding of the watch and see what ideas they can come up with! While you may have a certain idea of how you want this technology to be used but allow students to play with their constructionism minds and creative ideas and see what they can do or what problems they can solve.

Creativity:

Creative coder literally has creative in its name. Allow this to take hold of your class and let them explore their creativity! Don’t limit them in what they can do. This coding concept allows for creativity as students are guided through the application.

References:

Dougherty, D. (2015). The Maker Mindset. Retrieved from https://llk.media.mit.edu/courses/readings/maker-mindset.pdf

Donaldson, J. (2014). The Maker Movement and the rebirth of Constructionism. Hybrid Pedagogy. Available at: http://www.hybridpedagogy.com/journal/constructionism-reborn/