Share Paper: Preparing Preservice Teachers for “Learning by Making” in Makerspace Communities

  1. Ozlem Karakaya, Iowa State University, United States
  2. Jiaqi Yu, Iowa State University, United States
  3. Asimoula Valai, Iowa State University, United States
  4. Amy Updegraff, Iowa State University, United States
Thursday, March 21 1:45 PM-2:00 PM Celebrity 2

Abstract: This paper describes a blended learning approach used to raise awareness of ‘learning by making’ among preservice teachers. Specifically, detailed design narratives are shared on how an undergraduate course aimed to broaden preservice teachers’ understanding around makerspaces and maker pedagogy was designed and developed. This best practice paper informs current design practices in makerspace learning environments by presenting a detailed account describing how researchers and educators can design their own classes or programs. Also, this paper provides preservice teachers opportunities to learn about emerging topics by ‘learning by making’ while enrolled in a teacher preparation program.