design-thinking in the makerspace

When makerspaces are present within a culture of design thinking, then a unique ecology of problem-finding, innovative thinking and creative play blossoms.  Makerspaces are environments rich in both tools and materials, and such spaces encourage students to ‘think with their hands.’ 

Building a culture of design-thinking begins with understanding the essential connection between our hands, our head, and our hearts, and by providing our students the time and space to explore these connections. 

"How might we make things better?" is the most central and compelling question in our world today, and encouraging our students to flourish within culture of design thinking prepares them to discover challenges and create lasting, meaningful solutions.

Design Thinking and Makerspaces are tools that help to build this culture.

Makerspaces needn't be expensive enterprises dependent on elaborate tools and materials; they can, in fact, be a simple desk in the corner of the room, or a shelf cleared of books in a library. 

Rather, a makerspace is a playful mindset nourished with the optimism that we can make things better. It is a way of thinking that deeply values both the time and space to tackle great challenges. When we make room for this optimism and set aside time to practice it, we create a great makerspace for our kids.