A recent article by Suzie Boss detailed California's "Maker Movement." She describes this program as " the process of applying core concepts to real-world challenges, they develop a designer's eye and heart for problem solving. They build confidence as they progress from novices to skilled carpenters, welders, and designers of beautiful, lasting things that enhance their community," (Boss, 2014). At first I was thinking this is a great novel idea, more schools should do this. However, I was talking with my husband and he asked where does the funding come from to support the program, the article didn't really say, but I'm sure from local businesses and fundraising. Our discussion went on to discuss our own public school building trades program through our RESA. They build Habitat for Humanity houses and work with local builders on their new constructions. They have also helped with the city on building projects. Not all students are serious about the program and due to having so many in the program at once the instructor can not see to all students at once, thus the downfall, but those that really care and want to learn, are and they are learning valuable life skills. Many schools do employ this Maker Movement, at one time we also had auto class that would work on the schools vehicles, welding but with today's technology it is hard for the schools to keep the machines up to date. All in all it's a valuable program that needs to be incorporated in more communities.
Boss, S. (2014, November 13). Make the Most of the Maker Movement. Retrieved November 30, 2014, from http://www.edutopia.org/blog/make-most-maker-movement-suzie-boss
Cool post! I saw this article from edutopia as well, and I'm a big fan of the maker movement. At the core, as you address, the idea is to get students to use their creativity in application to real world problems more. To make things. The movement doesn't necessarily need funding (although that would really help), it's more of a way of thinking about teaching and learning. If we lead students to ecen just create designs (from sketches to CAD), then we've created something. Using low or no cost materials is a good choice as well, recycled materials, paper stuffs, ask businesses to donate (auto, machine, wood, clothing shops) depending on your class's age group, these projects can become integrated learning initiatives; students can fund their own ideas and reach out in the community by themselves.
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