Using Makerspaces to enrich Design and Technology education

Abstract

The studies of Vourikari et al. (2019) and Walan & Gericke (2022), show that a significant amount of research on makerspaces focuses on how these community spaces provide an informal approach to learning that promotes cross-curricular Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics (STEAM) education without considering how this could enrich design and technology education. Limited exploratory research has been conducted in the Maltese context on how makerspaces can enhance the professional development of design and technology teachers, supporting students' transition into the workforce, particu­larly in design, engineering, and technology-related occupations. By conducting an exploratory case study at a makerspace located in the Valletta Design Cluster (VDC) in Valletta, Malta, using observations and interviews as key methods, this study aims to understand the culture of makerspaces, the knowledge and skills exchanged by users, and how these align with engineering and technology literacy requirements (ITEEA, 2020). It also examines the teaching strategies employed, with particular focus on student-centred approaches. Four key themes emerged from the observations and interviews conducted at the makerspace: "teaching and learning methods," "opportunities within makerspaces," "knowledge and skills," and "makerspace users." These themes not only provided a deeper understanding of Malta's makerspace culture, but also highlight the educational potential of maker­spaces. This study concludes with a suggestive interpretive account by the researcher, based on the results and literature findings, detailing how makerspaces could enhance formal design and techno­logy education in Malta.

Keywords: design and technology, makerspaces, education, opportunities, teaching and learning.