Flipping the Makerspace to Maximizing Active Learning Time in Introductory Workshops

Abstract

A flipped, active learning teaching method where Instructional time is devoted to hands-on activities in makerspace workshops, and pre-work is done online before the session, not only makes efficient use of limited makerspace time and space but also allows participants to work through the pre-workshops materials at their own pace. Most participants of introductory 3D printing and 3D design workshops at the University of Victoria Libraries’ makerspace report high satisfaction levels for 60 minute workshops where 10 minutes are devoted to instruction, and 50 minutes are used for hands-on activities to practice the skills they were introduced to in the approximately 20 minutes of pre-workshop videos and readings.