Maker Stations hosted by MFSC Maker Ed Cohort schools were developed around teaching basic Maker skills such as sewing or constructing with cardboard. Each of the projects can be explored in depth through the “Getting Started With Making” pdf in which cohort members created Project Sheets with supply lists, directions, connections, and Standards. We specifically didn’t create lesson plans as the projects are meant to be flexible and editable. If you are teaching angles the Mini-Marshmallow Catapult can help your students make a connection to trajectories. The Superhero Cuffs can be part of a unit on character development, as Lliana Villegas’s school used the project as part of their Spirit Day Comicon event.

 

Over the 2017/2108 School Year the cohort discussed ways to develop pedagogy around Making. The Maker Stations were both examples of Making and examples of mastery; many stations featured student run sessions. The excitement and fun of Making can often cause educators to overlook the pedagogy they are employing when teaching the design method or challenging students to reiterate and improve on their work.

 

Ultimately the pride a student takes in Making something themselves will help them own their learning experience. The engagement and opportunity to teach “just in time” lessons on skills and concepts will help educators connect with their students in new ways. We hope you’ll give it a try.