Literature Review
We conducted rich literature reviews to guide our design. We not only looked into the evolution of project-based learning (PBL) and the maker space but also researched how they were connected and what were some good examples of integrating maker space and PBL into the educational design.
Project-Based Learning
Within the past few decades, teaching norms has increasingly shifted from instructor-led teaching and learning to a focus on student-centered learning experience design (Ji-Wei, Tseng, & Gwo-Jen, 2015). One such model is project-based learning (PBL). PBL is an inquiry-based instructional approach in which students learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally meaningful projects. The Buck Institute of Education defines standards-focused PBL as, “A systematic teaching method that engages students in learning knowledge and skills through an extended inquiry process structured around complex, authentic questions and carefully designed products and tasks.’’ (Buck Institute of Education [BIE], 2013a).
Maker Space
Another learning evolution is through the Maker Movement. In 2006, 22,000 people attended Maker Faires (a family-friendly celebration, showcasing innovative projects and the creative minds behind them) around the world, according to Maker magazine. The core value of the Maker Movement is to understand its promise for education.
According to Lee (2015), we need to emphasize digital tools, the community infrastructure, and the maker mindset. It outlines how the practices of making align with research on beneficial learning environments. In order to carry out the maker movement, educators are creating maker space as a unique learning environment that encourages tinkering, play, and open-ended exploration for all.
Combination of PBL and Maker Space
PBL can be regarded as the pedagogy and maker spaces can be seen as learning environments. Makerspaces are hands-on project work environments. Currently, many schools are offering unique PBL experiences that lead to the creation of a unique physical or digital product. Thus, In this way, bringing maker learning to the students.
Role of Documentation and Portfolios
One good example of integrating PBL into the school curriculum and bringing maker learning to the school is the Open Portfolio Project carried out by the Maker Education Initiative. According to their approach towards building a better PBL course, they valued documentation a lot. They argued that capturing and documenting one’s work plays a strong role in enabling students to reflect on their own learning and development along with the making and thinking process. Besides that, in today’s digital age, it’s very important for an individual to have his/her own identity and work for display to various people.
