Meaningful Making explores concepts of Paperts constructionism and finding deeper meanings of identity or associations like “I am a creative, I am a scientist, and I can solve problems.” (Blikstein) The design process also helps in addressing social issues through inclusive and emotional understanding. Middle school students are given a project and challenged on finding a solution that works for the project. David Clifford one of the creatives behind East Side Boy High School describes students learning through projects as “working in a variety of ways, to create, disrupt, and innovate in and around complex social systems.” (Clifford pp.5)
Students become more thoughtfully engaged when they can create a 3D representation of a unique interest. Using a program like Tinker cad allows students to create a 3D model of a character or object from a story that can be printed out using a 3D printer. It provides a multi-modal learning experience in a creative way. The maker space approach provides a segue into science and technology methods in art education. While students design and construct their two-dimensional models. Serving as a bridge into STEM and Steam activities in the art room.
References
Flores, C. (2015). From Name Tags to Lasting Artifacts: Fostering a Culture of Deep Projects. In P. Bilkstein, S. L. Martinez, & H. A. Pang (Eds.), Meaningful Making: Projects and Inspirations for Fab Labs+ Makerspaces(pp.4-6). Constructing Modern Knowledge Press
Riley, E. (2015). Launching Boats. In P. Bilkstein, S. L. Martinez, & H. A. Pang (Eds.), Meaningful Making: Projects and Inspirations for Fab Labs+ Makerspaces(pp.14-16). Constructing Modern Knowledge Press
Rudzitis, T. (2015). Thoughts on Learning and Engagement and The Pluto New Horizons Mission. In P. Bilkstein, S. L. Martinez, & H. A. Pang (Eds.), Meaningful Making: Projects and Inspirations for Fab Labs+ Makerspaces(pp.7-13). Constructing Modern Knowledge Press