Makerspaces: What They Are and How You Can Benefit from Them
Google the term “makerspace” and the search engine will probably display images of a workshop-like setting with long wooden desks, computers and fancy machines, where people can be seen creating items out of sheet materials, wires, or robotic components.
But what do you actually make in a makerspace? Is it just for anyone who is keen on building and creating? Does your home count as a makerspace if you’re making something, or is there more to be considered before it can qualify as one?
What a Makerspace Is
The Oxford Dictionary defines a makerspace as “a place where people who are interested in similar things can come together to work and share ideas and equipment”.
Essentially, makerspaces are environments for people to meet others with shared interests; a place for them to find opportunities to build strong friendships as well as communities. Through learning from each other and working together, makerspaces become collaborative co-working and co-sharing places. Eventually, they serve to inspire users to embark on experimental projects together, no matter their age, gender or skill level.
Ever had an idea, only to think, I need a factory to make this for me? With advancements in fabrication technology, we can now create items without the need for large industry manufacturing. Makerspaces allow people to freely try out tools that aren’t normally accessible to them without having to purchase the equipment and related consumables. Indeed, the cost of owning a decent 3D printer may even be expensive enough to deter almost everyone! Not having to look for a space to store what might potentially turn into a white elephant is also another good reason to visit a makerspace.
A Community for Builders of All Ages
But beyond providing access to technology, makerspaces are also key social nodes for people of all ages. It’s a place where people from all walks of life are welcome to pursue their own personal projects.
The National Library Board supports learning at makerspaces with MakeIT at Libraries, a free-for-public, beginner-friendly makerspace with branches located at the regional libraries in Jurong, Woodlands, and Tampines.
MakeIT at Jurong’s Centre Manager Brenda Low says that users are encouraged to teach and learn from one another, explaining that “each group has its own learning curve so they help each other out”.
Often, users forge friendships and then return to the makerspace together. “It’s rewarding to see members of the public evolve as they become more encouraged, make friends, and share ideas,” says Brenda. Cultivating these friendships can inspire their confidence, empowering them to experiment and bring even more projects to life. And when they share their creations with family and friends, it cultivates even more interest in makerspaces and its community.
Empowering Women and Seniors Through Technology
Makerspaces offer women the opportunity to get more involved with creative technology, as friendly staff members and volunteers create a warm and encouraging atmosphere. Brenda, who does not have a background in IT, believes that it is important to show women first-hand that these tech skills are simple to pick up without any prior experience.
Keen on inspiring women by example and empathising with their initial fears, she explains that “it’s a case of showing women that if I can do this, then so can you”. This creates a ripple effect, where women who are confident in their abilities can go on to encourage, teach, and empower others who are keen to explore what makerspaces have to offer.
Emphasising the practicality of mastering the machines and software at makerspaces is also beneficial. Brenda has met women who have been inspired to create items useful for day-to-day living, such as door sensors and automated watering cans.
But these makerspaces aren’t just empowering women. Seniors have also come forth to put their ideas in motion. Brenda recalls a senior user in his 70s who taught himself coding and created robots for his grandchildren. Another senior designed a torch light holder at the makerspace as a cost-effective solution after realising that there was a problem with the lights on his scooter.
In fact, many seniors view coming to the makerspace as an opportunity to escape their solitary lives, getting out of their homes to socialise with friends and bond with them over their latest creations.
A Place Where Ideas and People Come Together
Rufaidah Binte Mohd Kamal, who works primarily in MakeIT at Jurong as a Maker Coach, says the strength of a makerspace lies in its ability to expose the public to “different machines, how to the use them, and the possibilities [they can create.]”
For her, makerspaces serve as places to innovate alongside like-minded folks. While one can always work in the comfort of their home, makerspaces allow people to come together to discuss ideas and inspire each other with their latest creations. “A makerspace is where ideas come to play,” she says.
Ultimately, makerspaces not only offer the public access to various tools and equipment, but they also foster curiosity and creativity. It’s where beginners can hone their skills and confidently bring their ideas to life.
It’s fertile ground for inspriation and camaraderie.
Interested in 3D printing, robotics and other forms of tech-based tinkering? Join the community of makers at MakeIT on Facebook, or visit MakeIT at Libraries in person at the following locations:
