#TMchat Archive
Current and relevant education discussions are held every Tuesday in #TMchat. A weekly guest moderator, considered an expert on the the week's topic, joins @conniehamilton to guide the one hour chat and actively engage with participants. Founder and moderator @conniehamilton supplies her responses to the week's questions visually in Thinking Maps.
Tuesday June 14, 2016
I'm Connie Hamilton. Cynthia Day and I are your moderators tonight. Let the introductions begin. https://t.co/TLy07DwxYF
Danielle 4th grade teacher from MA. On a committee to build a Makerspace.
Our format will include 7 questions. Use A1 to respond to Q1 & remember to include hashtag in all tweets. https://t.co/UWeAdIId5I
I Vicki K teacher Tx. Excited to be here and hoping I can keep up with two
Concept of makerspace one that I find so important for today's world
Hi Danielle. A committee to build a makerspace where?
Hello ! Kimberly, Reading Specialist from north TX excited to talk tonight.
It will be at our middle school, but shared by all schools in district
Va and in secondary Ed for full career
Good evening. Cynthia Day in Vermont. Glad to be here. Thank you for having me.
What's your take on the importance? https://t.co/0loCVylyAH
Concept of makerspace one that I find so important for today's world
Elementary Librarian in San Antonio. Implemented a makerspace in my library this year
Hi Kimberly. Here's one teacher from TX already. Looking for now.
Wow... TEXAS is all over tonight.
Hi. Mary from VA. I teach 2nd. Last day w Ss today
Lots of resources will be shared tonight. Don't worry if you miss them. Will storify and share that.
Hello! I am a 4th grade teacher in DeLand, Florida!
Hi Mary. Glad you could join again this week.
Gives Sts options 2learn in a creative hands on aprproach. Set the learning that interests them. Collaborative work
unlocks creativity and generates collaboration unlike other learning methods.
Good evening! Tracy from NY secondary French & Spanish
I'm Chantell & I teach 4th in a + environment. I started Family STEAM Nights at my school & ran the basic MakerSpace.
Hi Tracy. Do you already use Makerspaces?
Good evening ! Todd, elem principal in CA...super excited to talk about maker spaces!
Oh.. then this is right up your alley.
For all those teachers curious about MakerSpaces! Come join the chat!
Will be popping in and out a bit tonight! Mommy duty! :)
Are you using them in your school now, Todd?
I want to learn more about makerspace. Have not tried it yet. :)
I wanted to try new chats tonight so I'm glad I came across this one!
A1: a place for Ss to create, explore and invent. This year I implemented a STEAM makerpace in my library
First question about to drop.
Totally understand. That's the beauty of a , you can pop in and out as you need. https://t.co/cNJ4rAGhOR
Will be popping in and out a bit tonight! Mommy duty! :)
I co-created my first "international Makerspace" at a Festival of Nations event -- it was VERY popular!
would add that coming from kinder teacher POV I see makerspace as a frame of mind not just a physical space
Not really...we've been experimenting with Genius Hour, but want to expand to design learning and maker spaces!
A1: I am new to this! A place to build and create in connection to the work we do in the classroom
We'll try to make you a regular. https://t.co/w2ZbRxOrwo
I wanted to try new chats tonight so I'm glad I came across this one!
Katie, High School Teacher Librarian ready to take it all on....sorry for the lack of a fancy circle map.
I am super interested in MakerSpace, so I will be learning from educators from !
I think the most important thing to remember re makerspaces is that making can take so many different forms
A1-Opportunity to freely create utilizing a plethora of materials-could be geared toward solving a problem. Limited experience-
Libraries are a great place for a makerspace.
https://t.co/Xnhx4CLnQA
A1: a place for Ss to create, explore and invent. This year I implemented a STEAM makerpace in my library
A1 We're setting up a (gradually) in an unused classroom this fall
love the "FOR ALL" I caught teachers in mine a few times this year ;) and had a makerpsace faculty meeting too
A1 Places where Ss are encouraged to be creative problem solvers. We are just getting started this year. https://t.co/0akyHwPqdH
Hellooooo everyone. I represent the team. I'm excited to talk Makerspaces in b/c they're so HACKY!
Tell us more about this... https://t.co/i7EUlfJzbc
I co-created my first "international Makerspace" at a Festival of Nations event -- it was VERY popular!
Precisely. A mindset. can take place anywhere. https://t.co/2WFNsX8Gye
would add that coming from kinder teacher POV I see makerspace as a frame of mind not just a physical space
A1: A makerspace is a chance for kids to explore, design, create...sometimes w tech...sometimes w/o...purpose is to use their hands!
A1: I don't use them, but I'm here to learn!
A1: Makerspaces allow kids to try-fail-try again without realizing they're building problem solving and growth mindset.
is there a bad place for a makerspace??
I'd like to know the 1 key element in designing a
Our custodians were the first to try out our space ;)
Makerspaces for older teens and adults, too. Libraries are installing makerspaces all over. https://t.co/O4zAHgBXSz
A1: Ss can gather to create, invent, tinker, explore &discover using a variety of tools/materials. https://t.co/ALgSH9pVpB
Key Element... Just Do It!
A1#makerspace is anything that ends in creation...even coloring. Have the responsibilty of teaching needed skill no longer offered
Wishing could pop into , I know she's been researching Makerspaces.
A1) Our school was new 2 makerspace so I'm still learning A LOT but to me it's tinkering, exploring, creating, and questioning
You sound like a pro to me!
Everybody starts somewhere. Dive in or wade in.
https://t.co/If105y4Lg5
A1-Opportunity to freely create utilizing a plethora of materials-could be geared toward solving a problem. Limited experience-
Hi Katie. Welcome to . I hear many makerspaces are in libraries. Have you tried it yet?
A1:I started Family STEAM Nights at my building & ran the No $$ for it,but still awesome for Ss. https://t.co/BMgmuslJiA
Adults love making, too.
https://t.co/Zi8QDuXm6S
love the "FOR ALL" I caught teachers in mine a few times this year ;) and had a makerpsace faculty meeting too
Howdy Just checking in to lurk & learn about makerspaces
You'er in the right place. What causes you to be interested in makerspaces?
I love that idea! Intrinsic to the concept is that it doesn't HAVE to be one single thing.
Examples of materials?? https://t.co/vjk03roeH8
A1-Opportunity to freely create utilizing a plethora of materials-could be geared toward solving a problem. Limited experience-
I am right there with you!
That's great you're so forward thinking w/your building.
A1:I used makerspace during my ballet unit. Ss researched ballets then designed & built their own interpretation of sets.
Jennifer Umphenour- here to learn more about Makerspaces!
A1 Both schools I sub in have makerspace that is amazing But outdoors incorporated into that2 https://t.co/nuy3BK5Zsh
Q2 coming up in one minute.
There's always something new to learn in education!
sounds like the voice of experience to me.
Legos, old parts & pieces of things, recyclables, anything usable to recreate something else??? :) Not sure...
That works for me. Sounds like good list to start! https://t.co/qQvmeVpPsL
Legos, old parts & pieces of things, recyclables, anything usable to recreate something else??? :) Not sure...
Started coding this year. Was fab!Plan to add device fix kit and sewing machines.And something with
I think it's a willingness to give students to make what's important to them. It's about passion and interest.
or let students take things apart to find new components (safely!)
Thanks! The challenge is bringing it to my site w/o overwhelming teachers w/ just one more thing!
I sent a note out to parents asking for recyclable donation & broken toys for our
Good Evening I have lots to learn about MakerSpaces - It will be great to learn from all of you. Meredith, from Marco Island, FL
A2 I think it joins a lot of ideas that have been around, but puts students in the driver's seat. Instead of a checklist, an outcome
I am taking all of these awesome resources and adding them to a page for later! Thanks for sharing! https://t.co/nB0DYEkYnN
Thanks! I like that you can do a w/no budget. Doesn't always have to be fancy.
. You should weigh in on right now!
Excellent idea. I will also storify.
And what they create becomes a technology
A2: Students may use something, but this gives them opportunity to create, build, unbuild to figure out how that "thing" works
It allows for Ss to use new tech on old ideas to make new inventions or create new problems to solve. https://t.co/rwRKJlRNBl
What's your experience with makerspaces? Any teachers in using them? https://t.co/SBwsvHu3iw
Howdy Just checking in to lurk & learn about makerspaces
A2 fills a need. Ss get happy about fixing a button. Yep, that simple. Give Ss the space and support to solve anything
Wonderful to incorporate into performing arts.
https://t.co/K59ZGnyvZI
A1:I used makerspace during my ballet unit. Ss researched ballets then designed & built their own interpretation of sets.
I actually think basic can be better -- more room for students to find function where none existed.
A2: Ss loved using yarn this year - the string hand designs -cat's cradle, jacob's ladder & finger knitting. https://t.co/dafLNoEmO7
A2) This question makes me think of Thomas Edison & the light bulb. An old idea that kept evolving. Creativity!
Just did my first genius hour
Did you have family STEAM challenges?
A2: Makerspaces bring back the idea of exploring and discovering, to promote creativity and feed curiosity. https://t.co/sHpvO4hUpP
Love the pics! Visual learner!
I can't let design thinking be mentioned without throwing John Spencer's name out...
Sewing machines are a wonderful addition to a makerspace. https://t.co/kSLk3Mp99s
Started coding this year. Was fab!Plan to add device fix kit and sewing machines.And something with
Our 5th & 6th graders did it this year...projects blew my mind...I've never seen some of them smile so much! https://t.co/PMCkqlOexG
Just did my first genius hour
Starting by organizing materials we already have in one place. Resources go unused unless Ts know they're there!
Coding is making, creating, designing.
https://t.co/kSLk3Mp99s
Started coding this year. Was fab!Plan to add device fix kit and sewing machines.And something with
Cardboard is a must when making
He and are awesome! will be having a book study this July if you are interested! https://t.co/Uh49qJsgNc
I can't let design thinking be mentioned without throwing John Spencer's name out...
We usually have a 3-4 stations for families to move to as they like. 1.Math 2.Robotics 3.Makerspace 4.Coding
That process is so important and don't forget to get out of the Ss way
we gathered LOTS of diverse (random) materials, provided pix of bridges/monuments/structs from around the world...
A2 It's like having a craft corner, Lego club, art class. Kids have always loved to create. Now it's called something new
A2 Take a walk in the woods and see how something old can be new again. I liken this to a it's ever-changing and diff
One of the best resources ever.
students (and parents) went to town!
When and collide https://t.co/UEMMV0YsmN
agreed. There is so much to cover but my strong kids want to soar. I want to use makerspaces this yr https://t.co/MdvnrMsBsh
A2: I struggle most with differentiating, especially for my stronger students.Want to make sure Ss don't have misconceptions
Both and are talking about Makerspace and cardboard at the same time. Thought I was confused.
Hey Ben guy jumping in late-love the topic-we are working on developing a maker space 4 next year
Student ownership, voice, agency. Students as creators.
https://t.co/EMXK7huqcA
A2 I think it joins a lot of ideas that have been around, but puts students in the driver's seat. Instead of a checklist, an outcome
A3: I make space by decluttering!! If you haven't used it, you won't so get rid of it and make room for something the kids WILL use!
Don't forget the cardboard
A3 Currently all we have are Legos which are in library, but they are organized so they can be portable. https://t.co/3Mw6HqzjuV
Feel free to ask questions, I'd love to be a help!
A3 reative partnering with Ts & admin-my principal & I share an office means more space for Ts & Ss https://t.co/2PWVFj8yFl
If you tune into they're talking about it now!
A2) Having a station with realia would probably benefit those students!
A3: Seen a lot lately about tying in literacy i.e.: build the Billy Goat's Gruff bridge etc.
You can create ANYTHING with Cardboard and it's everywhere your cafeteria throws tons of it away
Amazingly powerful and it takes so little with so much impact.
https://t.co/0U1URRz7ZX
A2 fills a need. Ss get happy about fixing a button. Yep, that simple. Give Ss the space and support to solve anything
A3 Take apart the computer lab & use it for hands on-lego robotics/FOSS kits all out for use https://t.co/2PWVFj8yFl
A3: I weeded books and cleared off some shelves
Like at Christmas when they play with the box and not the gift... I see! https://t.co/dxanUUI4cp
because no kid can resist a cardboard box. Endless possibilities!
Constraints drive creativity.
https://t.co/slmzhI71M4
I actually think basic can be better -- more room for students to find function where none existed.
is now trending in USA, ranking 45
Its about what is created in the
A3:We have a recycling center that Ts & families keep full for any tinkering needs.My classroom is an inquiry zone.
WOW! Those look exceptional sessions you put so much into making sure is so helpful - we all benefit!
it doesn't have to be crazy creative, just defined. Draw the and they will come
great topic tonight. I'm traveling & need to read archive & links later Thx & crew
I want all the Legos! There's only 2 small boxes I bought from in my room.
A3 Space is a real issue! We cleared out all file cabinets, teacher desk and student desks.
A3) This is where comes in .. and my new school even has a makerspace room!
A3 it doesn't have to be crazy creative, just defined. Draw the and they will come
We had a Lego drive at both of our Elem. campuses.
YES! Cafe ladies & I are bffs.
Just do it I've seen it done as a year long project we did it as a unit gotta decide obj
Learning from all of you. I was making it too complicated - this sounds great! Education was like this in the 60's and 70's
I love this idea! I am stealing this one! https://t.co/m0ZuSHw7HR
We had a Lego drive at both of our Elem. campuses.
Thanks for taking care of my summer PD!
Q4 coming up in one minute
Hope not...I'm still at school on district computer. Hey spammers take it easy on , please.
Beauty of genius hour is kids can create ANYTHING THEY WANT so possibilities are endless
How much did you collect from the drive? https://t.co/IwVb1v5iIK
We had a Lego drive at both of our Elem. campuses.
A4: My favorite part was seeing different Ss be successful & T others. Sometimes "smart" kids had trouble & others would teach them
We had enough to fill a large Rubbermaid tub.
Yes. So many opportunities.
https://t.co/t6AP2vKSeW
A3: Seen a lot lately about tying in literacy i.e.: build the Billy Goat's Gruff bridge etc.
I teach in a high poverty area so not as realistic, but great idea for others!
most of ours were used Legos that were donated!
Or pieces of cardboard all the same
A4: If I had makerspaces, I would have been more engaged since I'm a tactile learner.
A4: Engages your ss that need to be active, moving, hands on, building. future engineers carpenters etc
A4 it gives learners a chance to shine in a domain of their choosing! Empowers & encourages choice/voice
thank you. just moved words around! didn't even choose them.
A4 All learners can be successful. Doesn't have to do with IQ, but RQ. Risk quotient
Its even better in a high poverty area because materials are readily available
A4 THIS is where the knowledge is unlocked hands-on learners teaching a teacher directed learner how to be creative in a
A4 Allows all learners to experience both failure and success---both important!
RQ = something else new! Ya gotta love Twitter. https://t.co/HULUdAp3bv
A4 All learners can be successful. Doesn't have to do with IQ, but RQ. Risk quotient
I will storify and share. Someone is going to make a padlet, too.
Ohhh... New Edu-Acronyms. b/c we don't already have enough! https://t.co/VSvyKzGz9f
A4 All learners can be successful. Doesn't have to do with IQ, but RQ. Risk quotient
A4) All Ss are honored because isn't it their wondering and curiosities what they explore? Student directed learning
We'll have a archive too. https://t.co/fHZWa1sVZX
I will storify and share. Someone is going to make a padlet, too.
We don't like to put the burden or guilt on our families to ask for donations based on feedback from them.
I just made that up! Woo hoo!
It's an old idea made new again.
With lots more tech available. https://t.co/n4lXk8JLwl
Learning from all of you. I was making it too complicated - this sounds great! Education was like this in the 60's and 70's
A4-Stimulation of creativity & "tinkering" leading to risk-taking & problem solving!
I replied in the wrong place! This was for the Lego drive! I LOVE Genius Hour in my room.
hey it just popped outta my head! Don't be a hater hacker ;)
Do you have suggestions for getting started with genius hour?
Q5 coming up in one minute
Allows differently passioned students to shine.
https://t.co/BbJbTy085m
A4: My favorite part was seeing different Ss be successful & T others. Sometimes "smart" kids had trouble & others would teach them
Whether it's science or makerspace I feel student & teacher reelection can't be over stated.
Q5: What might be some of the pushbacks for implementing makerpaces? How can they be addressed?
https://t.co/qHnuLZ3Xwj
There's one in every crowd. Or a dozen in every crowd.
https://t.co/zwwPNDpma3
A4: If I had makerspaces, I would have been more engaged since I'm a tactile learner.
REFLECTION https://t.co/58FXPRYAxQ
Whether it's science or makerspace I feel student & teacher reelection can't be over stated.
Constructivist Learning Theory at its best! Excited to try.
Risk takers. Yes.
https://t.co/EXo92cpZvS
A4 All learners can be successful. Doesn't have to do with IQ, but RQ. Risk quotient
A5: Aren't they just playing? YES! And building and collaborating and discussing and thinking and... https://t.co/QcWR8lgXr6
Q5: What might be some of the pushbacks for implementing makerpaces? How can they be addressed?
https://t.co/qHnuLZ3Xwj
A5-Lack of materials-Advertise & most likely will end up w/more than could possibly need! Try a Donors Choose for speciality items!
Failure become purposeful. It's not really failure. It's feedback.
https://t.co/6PNtcZ4VFJ
A4 Allows all learners to experience both failure and success---both important!
A4 really personalized learning for Ss
A5: for us, it's lack of space, we will need to walk to middle school, not all schools in walking distance
Yes this is what I have heard
After testing is finished. Good bounce back. That's only one idea, but I've done it.
A5 Some may criticize that Ss are just playing and not learning. Have Ss explain what they're doing, write about it
what if a was a corner of a room and it was a rotated space? I know i'd look forward to that creative morment
A5 Money is an initial concern; there is a lot you can do for free
A5: When makerspaces are understood and planned for success, any obstacles can be overcome. https://t.co/vijyesOfIW
Excellent idea!! Need to remember for next yr. https://t.co/AJ3ZyxtU7f
what if a was a corner of a room and it was a rotated space? I know i'd look forward to that creative morment
Don't reinvent the wheel. I started with and Denise Krebs book Genius Hour Guidebook! https://t.co/nfBRqYrBdo
Do you have suggestions for getting started with genius hour?
Understandable. They may not mind giving you their egg cartons, though!
https://t.co/r2iQMs22UV
We don't like to put the burden or guilt on our families to ask for donations based on feedback from them.
We are thinking maker space on wheels....
A5b May be concerned about not hitting x standard. Getting to class on time doesn't either, but that's important, too
Thanks Meredith! I'm blushing.
Those are the things they bring to our building recycling center! It's overflowing w/good stuff.
Q6 coming up in one minute
A2: Ss get to learn/present info w/out having to write a paper, make a ppt.Entire process in their hands.
I am by no means an expert, but if you have questions feel free to ask.
Many things can be done with egg cartons and garbanzo beans
great alternative to the space issue. How exciting when the projector was rolled in?! Imagine a arriving???
A5:Big ? -how does it fit into curriculum...answr: incorporates reading, writing, math, science...it enhances not replaces standards
A5) I love how in by & talks about launching 2 an audience=help w/pushback
Lots of people doing this successfully.
https://t.co/ZRzyBJOxty
A5-Lack of materials-Advertise & most likely will end up w/more than could possibly need! Try a Donors Choose for speciality items!
Is that a snack machine next to it? Brilliant!
If you know your standards well you'll find ways to justify it. to the rescue!
A5) In addition to being a facilitator, teachers should also be supportive during instruction.
https://t.co/m1wdYAa2SC
Exactly! Maker space gives students a chance to read, write, apply about things that excite them! https://t.co/fJd1qsZFpq
If you know your standards well you'll find ways to justify it. to the rescue!
Collaborate with your students! We come up with so many good ideas together
Yup explain the science behind their designs
Glad I could join. Will check tweets. See both chats as an intersection in empowering creative learning experiences
The founder of Build a Bear funded our last project for tech toys! Love
Yes, I hear a lot about needing rubrics and other ways to impress accountability. I challenge that.
https://t.co/01z3yAxFwD
A5 Some may criticize that Ss are just playing and not learning. Have Ss explain what they're doing, write about it
Sounds like a great idea.
https://t.co/xwL5MyU1Kf
what if a was a corner of a room and it was a rotated space? I know i'd look forward to that creative morment
I do it for the last hour every Friday. Ss complained about not getting Fun Friday recess, but never said it again w/GH.
Definitely dry...NOT canned ;)
A4:Ss who weren't usually engaged in my class were THRIVING during our makerspace time. They loved being in charge of their learning
Why are libraries such terrific places for makerspaces to take place?
It also allows for development of so-called "soft skills" that more and more people realize are important.
https://t.co/xdyyzTIaXw
A5b May be concerned about not hitting x standard. Getting to class on time doesn't either, but that's important, too
You feel like you're breaking the rules... supposed to be quiet and structured. https://t.co/x1oqng2C0l
Why are libraries such terrific places for makerspaces to take place?
Because EVERY student has access!
Could fit into a daily 5 rotation, perhaps if a reflective writing or story about their creation accompanied it?
it's important for Ss to think of the reg classroom also as a fun place for learning. We all know the lib is fun
Plus some of the technology and 21st century standards/skills.
https://t.co/M3sQoXm859
A5:Big ? -how does it fit into curriculum...answr: incorporates reading, writing, math, science...it enhances not replaces standards
I'm seeing the same thing
Q7 coming up in one minute
Maybe b/c research is an important aspect of creation?
a bit of me dies when rubrics are the focus
Exactly (I ran out of space...curse those 140 characters!!) :-)
And why do you challenge rubrics
I challenge the need for everything done in school to require summative assessment. Enough of it is.
https://t.co/Fu5gglNJU2
And why do you challenge rubrics
It's a community. We've always supported makers. (Mike from MD - EL LMS lurking)
So how do we know Ss understand the science
that was June 7, Amy. But there is an archive if you want.
b/c they're accessible to everyone? Usually large open spaces https://t.co/y9PfM8Pwzp
Why are libraries such terrific places for makerspaces to take place?
I show my Ss the standards in kid terms & they make the rubric for how they were successful
Libraries r great for a because they serve so many people, Especially w/ Project-Based Learning
If you are using maker activities to teach science, that's one thing. But doesn't always mean summative.
https://t.co/DspwcdF9RN
So how do we know Ss understand the science
Thank you and for moderating! Always good to learn about new things!
Thanks so much! Will def need to reread chat!
LOVE the metacognition there
It's a community space, unlike a classroom in that it invites wonder and lingering and exploring.
https://t.co/hZrE22VbGc
Why are libraries such terrific places for makerspaces to take place?
A7: Making in English Class https://t.co/AvLQvthBSa Scott Delleso "exploring, creating, thinking, playing, learning, and sharing"
Thank you for a great night of learning and connecting!
Thank you for being here.
A5: When makerspaces are understood and planned for success, any obstacles can be overcome. �� MORE >> https://t.co/vpmD2rtinE
Thank you to everyone who participated. And to everyone who viewed, clicked, shared, and lurked. Thank you
Peace 🙏
Supporting the future/new teachers - we should all dial up next week.
While I don't like standardized assessments it's the reality we live in. Find a way to make it happen w/in the construct
