A Makerspace wish list

Jared Simons —

Dear Parents,

I am reaching out to the community to ask for your help. We are looking for the following tools and equipment that we can use during Student Directed Learning time.

Student-driven learning, also known as learner-centered education or self-directed learning, is an educational approach in which students take an active role in their own learning. Instead of teachers being the primary sources of knowledge, students are encouraged to seek out information, ask questions, and engage in activities that build their skills and knowledge.

In student-driven learning, the focus is on the student and their interests, strengths, and challenges. Teachers serve as guides and facilitators, providing support and resources, but ultimately it is the students who decide what they want to learn, how they want to learn it, and how they will demonstrate their learning.

In the Age of A.I, which wrote the 2 paragraphs above, it is important for schools to create opportunities for our rangatahi to make, create, build and express themselves. Our motivation behind this request is to be able to create multiple Maker Spaces in the school where creation and ideation can happen. If you have access to any of the following resources and are willing to donate them to the school we will put them to good use.

Please email simon.m@newlandsint.school.nz or deliver any donations to the office.

Maker Space/SDL time wish list

  • Saws

  • Screwdrivers

  • Hammers

  • Pliers

  • Pallets or wood in relatively good condition

  • Plant pots and plants

  • Cardboard

  • Newspapers, magazines

  • Glass jars or large yoghurt containers for use when painting

  • Shoe boxes

  • Hand drills … (powered drills?? Maybe)

  • Drill bits

  • Nails / Screws

  • Fastenings …handles, slide locks, hinges

  • Digital devices that work but are no longer used or needed

    • Mice (USB connections)

    • Headphones (USB connections)

    • Mics (USB connections)

    • MEDI keyboards (USB connections)

    • Smartphones with cameras (without SIM cards)

    • Tripods

  • Fabric- 50cm long or more.

  • Balls of wool

  • Buttons/Beads/thread

  • Old CDs with school aged appropriate music for radio stations (have been informed that streaming is not allowed).