A ‘Blank Slate’ for Boosting Student Engagement
Our makerspaces are designed to connect STEM career exploration to reading literacy through a systematic process. We implemented a weeklong after-school experience called Design Camp, where students could explore coding, VEX robots, STEM labs and art experiences. We followed a similar pattern to offer further opportunities during the day: During extended learning opportunities and weekly library classes, students investigate and apply rigorous technology and literacy skills across the curriculum.
Our library was under renovation when this journey began, which meant we had a blank canvas for designing the new space. We added high-top work tables, colorful stools, a Lego wall, and wheeled toolboxes for a career and technology lab. We created a café-style reading zone with colorful chairs and bookcases. Even with a shoestring budget, we designed a beautiful and inviting learning space for students to experience reading and apply problem-solving skills. We sought grant funding to add new technology.
Our first grant, through the Tennessee Valley Authority, provided $5,000 to expand the concept of one makerspace into a schoolwide initiative, with designated teachers who have expertise in coding, robotics, digital arts and STEM labs. We used the grant funds to create weekly labs for students in makerspaces where they used academic vocabulary, experienced performance-based learning opportunities and engaged in interactive labs with cross-curricular connections to math, science, engineering and career exploration.
As a result of this project, students can:
- Participate in new STEM-focused makerspaces
- Complete an elementary career and interest survey
- Participate in personalized goal conversations that connect academic proficiency goals to career interests and readiness
- Access academic vocabulary, technology, science, engineering and math skills across the curriculum
- Meet personalized proficiency reading and math goals
- Participate in weekly makerspace labs
- Investigate coding and progression of coding skills
- Apply coding skills in robotics activities
- Write, film and produce school news updates
- Design and create using a 3D printer and industrial technology