Beyond STEM: Expanding the Role of Makerspaces to Improve Student Wellness + Learning
In a recent article posted by the New York Times, Dr. Lambert, a professor of Behavioral Neuroscience at the University of Richmond in Virginia, outlines how hands-on activities impact how we think and feel; and in her words:“When you look at the brain’s real estate - how it’s divided up, and where its resources are invested - a huge portion of it is devoted to movement, and especially voluntary movement of the hands.”
Through her research, she believes that working with ones hands can help to combat the feelings of depression. These same findings can be applied for students in schools. While an emphasis on STEM subjects have been embraced and adopted by schools nation-wide, many continue to de-emphasize fine motor skills and the arts. Discover how makerspaces can be used for more than STEM subjects and how these broader use cases can improve the wellness and learning of students through a focus of hands-on activities. 
The Evolution of Makerspaces:
Makerspaces, also known as hacker spaces, or innovation labs, are collaborative workspaces where individuals gather to create, invent, and learn through hands-on experimentation. Initially rooted in STEM education, makerspaces have evolved into versatile environments that encompass a wide range of disciplines, including arts, crafts, design, and even entrepreneurship.Makerspaces Have Moved Beyond STEM Subjects Alone
Extended beyond their obvious appeal for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects, makerspaces also play a crucial role in enhancing fine motor skills, including writing, art, and other creative endeavors. Arts and Crafts:
Artistic expression fosters emotional intelligence and provides a unique avenue for self-discovery and communication. In makerspaces, students have the opportunity to explore various artistic mediums, from painting and sculpture to digital design and multimedia production. The arts and literature not only complement STEM subjects but also enhance them by fostering creativity and imagination. Additionally, engaging in artistic endeavors not only fosters self-expression but also promotes mindfulness and stress relief, contributing to overall student wellness. By bridging disciplines, makerspaces encourage interdisciplinary thinking and equip students with the tools to tackle complex problems from multiple perspectives.Design and Innovation:
Design thinking, a human-centered approach to problem-solving, is a natural fit for makerspaces. Students can tackle real-world challenges by brainstorming ideas, prototyping solutions, and receiving feedback from peers and mentors. By integrating design principles into their projects, students develop critical thinking skills and empathy while gaining a deeper understanding of user needs and preferences.Entrepreneurship and Innovation:
Makerspaces serve as incubators for budding entrepreneurs, providing them with the resources and support needed to turn their ideas into reality. Students can develop prototypes, conduct market research, and refine their business plans under the guidance of experienced mentors. By fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, makerspaces empower students to take risks, embrace failure, and persevere in the face of adversity – essential qualities for success in today's rapidly changing world.Health and Wellness:
In addition to intellectual growth, makerspaces play a vital role in promoting student wellness. The act of creating is inherently therapeutic, offering a means of self-expression and stress relief. Through art-making, students can channel their emotions, explore their identities, and develop a sense of agency and empowerment.Furthermore, makerspaces cultivate a sense of community and belonging, providing students with a supportive environment where they can collaborate, share ideas, and celebrate each other's achievements. This sense of connection is essential for mental health and resilience, particularly in the face of academic challenges and societal pressures.
The Benefits of Hands-On Learning:
At the heart of makerspaces lies the philosophy of learning by doing. Unlike traditional classroom settings, where passive learning is often the norm, makerspaces encourage active engagement and experimentation. By working on tangible projects that align with their interests and passions, students develop a deeper understanding of concepts and retain information more effectively. Furthermore, hands-on learning promotes collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills – all of which are essential for success in the 21st-century workforce.Enhancing Student Wellness:
The holistic approach of makerspaces extends beyond academic achievement to encompass student wellness. By providing a supportive and inclusive environment, makerspaces promote social connections and a sense of belonging among students. Collaboration with peers and mentors fosters a culture of empathy, respect, and mutual support, contributing to positive mental health outcomes. Additionally, the satisfaction derived from completing projects and overcoming challenges boosts self-esteem and confidence, further enhancing student well-being.
How to Integrate Interdisciplinary Projects into Your Makerspace
Cross-Curricular Projects:
Design projects that combine elements of art and STEM disciplines. For example, challenge students to design and build a Rube Goldberg machine that incorporates both engineering principles and artistic flair. Encourage them to consider aesthetics, such as color, shape, and texture, alongside technical considerations like force, motion, and energy transfer.STEAM Challenges
Embrace the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) approach by incorporating art-focused challenges into your makerspace activities. For instance, task students with designing and constructing a bridge using only cardboard and glue, then encourage them to decorate the bridge with intricate patterns or motifs inspired by architectural styles from around the world.Interactive Installations
Encourage students to create interactive installations that merge technology with artistic expression. Provide them with resources such as microcontrollers, sensors, and LEDs, and challenge them to design immersive experiences that engage the senses. For example, students could create a responsive light sculpture that changes color and pattern based on environmental inputs or user interactions.Digital Art + Design
Introduce students to digital art and design tools and software within the makerspace environment. Allow them to explore techniques such as 3D modeling, digital painting, and animation, then challenge them to integrate their digital creations with physical components to create interactive multimedia installations or exhibits.Collaborative Projects
Foster collaboration between students from different disciplines by assigning interdisciplinary projects that require a combination of art and STEM skills. Encourage them to leverage their respective strengths and expertise to solve complex problems or create innovative solutions.Reflection and Critique
Incorporate opportunities for reflection and critique into the makerspace experience. Encourage students to analyze and discuss the artistic and technical aspects of their projects, considering factors such as aesthetics, functionality, and innovation. Provide constructive feedback and guidance to help students refine their work and deepen their understanding of the connections between art and STEM.
How studioTECHNE Can Help You:
Empower Students Through Diverse Makerspace Experiences
Makerspaces have the potential to revolutionize education. By incorporating art into makerspace activities, educators can tap into students' diverse interests and talents, fostering a more inclusive and engaging learning environment.Prioritizing hands-on activities and experiential learning allows educators to create immersive learning environments that inspire curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning. If you are interested in how you can create a makerspace for your school, contact studioTECHNE | Architects in Cleveland, Ohio today. We service the areas of Cleveland, OH, Columbus, OH, Cincinnati, OH and beyond. We also work in Miami, FL, Washington, DC, and Philadelphia, PA.studioTECHNE’s process of thoughtful inquiry translates aspirations into authentic places that foster life long learning. Reach out to us to learn more about our projects, process, and team. 
students at Case Western Reserve University’s think[box]
