Mr. Joe Adolfae (ES Makerspace / HS Art) and Mr. Michael Peters (MS/HS Design) have just returned from the Association of International Schools in Africa (AISA) conference in Dakar, Senegal. They were selected to present an Innovative Practice Series session entitled, “Developing a Maker Culture In Your School“. The session was very well received by a full house audience of educators from across the continent.
“Maker Culture” focuses on both the practical and thinking skills related to designing and making, including both technology and hands-on projects. The use of the word “culture” is meant to emphasize the importance of ASA’s multifaceted approach: promoting “making” across the curriculum, but also in after-school activities, during play, and with the involvement of the whole school community.
The session highlighted a range of initiatives at ASA, including educational opportunities offered by the whole staff, special events like Maker Faire, our “maker spaces” and the expansion of our Design and Technology infrastructure. The group discussed the educational thinking behind the maker movement, as well as some of specific challenges (such as budget and access to materials and equipment) faced by schools in our African community.
However, the overall message was meant to emphasize that with the right approach, the benefits of a “maker mindset” is available to all schools, regardless of facilities or budget.
