The discussions and readings surrounding DIY and DIWO created a broader understanding and enthusiasm for this topic.
I have immediately thought of a number of students that would be totally engaged from being involved in the maker society. (I have been looking for maker spaces inthe Oshawa Whitby area to no avail yet)
The reason maker spaces appeals to me is the design; it promotes inquiry in an authentic setting, starts with a problem. It is a four step model with assessment through the whole process and that they are physical spaces where people gather to share resources, knowledge and work on a communal problem together. I like how solving problems is a good thing. People are inspired by others ideas and vision of the problem
I was reminded of the movie I just saw The Martian and the crux of the movie and joy in the astronauts was solving problems, one right after the other. Even in the original Tom Hanks movie, the famous quote was "Houston, we have a problem" . The other key in DIY and DIWO is collaboration., using your own problem solving skills but also listening to others ideas for different solutions. If the team had brushed off the 20 something astrophysicist because he was a bit odd and not part of their team, they would not have solved the problem with his suggestion
An other important caveat in DIY is self directed learning and we learn best by doing, hands on. The indri auld takes responsibility and initiative for what occurs. Individuals select manage and assess their own learning activities, which can
be pursued at anytime, through any means, at any age.