Maketec: A Makerspace as a Third Place for Children

Abstract

Makerspaces of various models are forming all around the world. We present a model and case study of the Maketec, a public drop-in makerspace for children, run by teens. The Maketec model is designed to promote making and socializing opportunities for girls and boys of ages 9-14. It is based on three underlying principles: (1) "Low Floor/Wide Walls": construction kits and digital fabrication technologies that allow kids to invent and create with no prior knowledge or expertise; (2) "Unstructured Learning": no formal instructors, teens serve as mentors for kids, and promote a culture of self-driven learning through projects; and (3) "A Makerspace as a Third Place": the Maketec is free and managed by kids for kids in an effort to form a unique community of young makers. We report on interviews with four recurring visitors, and discuss our insights around the three principles and the proposed model.