The motto of the maker movement is “if it can be imagined, it can be made.” Little did we know when we applied to Education Matters to build a maker space in our learning commons and host a Design Thinking series what amazing sharing, collaboration and creation would come of it.
What we learned was more of an affirmation. Each session in the Design Thinking series was unique, but the common thread throughout was that teachers want time and space to come together, to be inspired and inspiring, to share to collaborate and to design amazing learning experiences for their students.
We learned that we have a community of makers in Calgary who believe in education and who want to be part of the work. Their gifts of time, knowledge and expertise were invaluable.
And from our 6 pilot schools who incorporated making into their classrooms (and other spaces) for their students we learned that sometimes students learn best when we get out of their way. “The fewer instructions you give them, the better their final projects will be.” (P. Kelba)
“I think I have finally found my tribe. I had no idea there were other teachers doing this work in CBE. I am not alone.” (Design Thinking series participant.)