Tech Talk: Maker Movement

The Maker Movement

The Maker Movement is as simple as its title—it’s a movement to allow students to make things, play, and tinker to create something of their own. From the Darth Vader model, as built with a 3-D Printer in a classroom in Rumford (see page14) to robots made of Legos, the possibilities are endless. You can easily create a “makerspace” for students to learn through experimentation and play in your school. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

Sketch Up

This software allows students to draw in 3D, and is being used in Maine schools. The software allows students to fi rst draw lines and shapes and then gives them the opportunity to push and pull surfaces to turn them into 3D forms. Students can stretch, copy, rotate and paint to make anything they can think of, they are only limited by their own imagination. Learn more at sketchup.com. The pro version of the software is free for any MLTI participating school.

The State House modeled in Sketch Up.

makey makey

This invention kit turns everyday objects into touchpads and combines them with the internet. Students have done everything from create game consoles out of playdough to turn stairs into a piano keyboard. The kit connects the object to a computer program using a circuit board, alligator clips and a USB cable. Learn more and see video of how it works at www.makeymakey.com. Each kit costs $50.

Cardboard, Duct Tape and Popsicle Sticks

Don’t have the budget for a 3-D printer? Don’t underestimate the power of good old-fashioned duct tape. Create an innovation station in your class where kids have space to tinker with these easy to access tools and build using their imagination. The innovation station will encourage critical thinking, creative problem solving and deeper learning. A willingness to allow students to explore is key, the expensive tools are nice, but not necessary.