what  is  a  makerspace?

Based on the theory of constructionism, which says learning most often happens when the learner is engaged in personally meaningful activities, a makerspace allows for creativity, problem solving, and collaboration.  A makerspace can be high or low tech and is often a designated physical location where people go to build new things. 
Makerspaces have popped up across the country and are providing both children and adults with the opportunity to create freely. However, the goal of this project is to tie maker activities to state standards and curriculum to eliminate the need for a specific location, thereby increasing accessibility. 
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This project will investigate:

1. How do P-5 teachers integrate standards-based maker kits into their classrooms?
2. What features of professional development are most effective when integrating standards-based maker kits into the P-5 classroom? 
3. How are students impacted by their making experiences? 
4. How do students’ attitudes, self-efficacy, etc. change? 

What  makes  this  different  from  other  Makerspaces?

benefits  of  using  a makerspace

• Clearly designed, differentiated lesson plans 
• Planned to enhance state curriculum
• Interdisciplinary topics to demonstrate that learning and problem solving is not tied to a content area
• Assessments to determine effectiveness/growth 
• Kits - Rather than needing to find space and limiting the availability of the makerspace, kits are mobile
• Professional development and a contact person at each school to support teachers and their students

1. Creativity
2. Problem Solving
3. Collaboration
4. Invention Literacy - making students active producers rather than passive consumers 

what  is  innovation  literacy?

Inspired by Jay Silver, the creator of Makey Makey, and his idea of "Invention Literacy," we are pushing students toward Innovation Literacy. This concept ​means enabling our students to solve problems and tinker in order to create and is a driving idea behind the Makerspace movement.

Why  is  making  important  to  south  carolina  students?