Resource:Creating How To Contribute To An Existing Course And Transform A Traditional Classroom Into A Mini Maker Space

Contents

Introduction

Many traditional courses within higher education are quickly becoming obsolete, outdated, or irrelevant to a studentsaspirationsand educational toolkit. As many industries and markets demand cutting-edge innovation, the question must be asked "where can such skills and knowledge be gained?" Makerspace's have gained significant traction in recent years, and we are quickly seeing them being adopted into academia across the nation. While every classroom has space for improvement, why are more classes not implementing such phenominal programs that give students real-world skills that can transfer into their careers after graduation? 

Need and Goals

When it comes to bringing others into a creative space, it’s important to remember there are more than just monetary needs. As understood from previous members of UIF, there can be much beauracracy to cut through in the institutionalized academic landscape in addition to many skeptics whom traditionally are risk-averse.

The most important thing to trasition a traditional course into a mini makerspace is teaming up with faculty and staff whom are fully supporting the vision. This alliance changes the rules as budgets can be larger, changes be made more quickly, and doors are opened that would otherwise be inaccessible. Having a rough idea or vision is great to keep the spirit alive and going; however, overplanning and rigidness quickly can ruin potential opportunities. The general consensus is to have broad goals, yet remain flexible enough to iterate when appropriate.

Academic Permission

Being backed by key faculty and staff can drastically alter the outcome of your efforts. Ideally, the higher, the better. Including prominent figures whom are associated with your university, such as an academic dean, are able to do a significant amount in small amounts of time. Be sure to collaborate with as many faculty and staff who express an interest as this gains interia and means greater access to funding and clearance to make the necessary changes.

Support

A crucial portion of support comes from the faculty, teachers, the board of trustees and alumni. These people are not merely resources, but people who care and are onboard with a given idea and are ready to help for the good of the cause. Creating innovate spaces and area with easy communication is not a one man job; Innovation involves solid support and feedback.

(Springboard, not final)

Cost

This will depend on your school and your school's policies, but you should find out the cost of the course, supplies and learning materials in advance in order to budget correctly.

Location

This can differ depending on the size of your class and your classes needs. It is important to work with the academic dean and registrar in order to make sure your needs are met and an appropriate classroom is acquired.  

Management

It is important to make sure that you stay in contact and update all groups involved. The more aware the groups involved in this project are the better prepared you will be to tackle challenges.

Lessons & Tips

• There are a lot of groups involved in this process and it is is important to understand all parties goals, in order to make this successful.
• This process can be extremely time consuming, so it is important to plan accordingly and expect what you put in is what you are going to get out of it.