4. Maker Community: The purpose of this section is to illustrate that Making is an activity that occurs within complex communities. Making involves links to a wide array of people that bring diverse expertise and perspectives. These community networks support the connection to Making to a larger social context and provide productive pathways for learning
To meet the expectations for this section, candidates are expected to:
- Provided documentation of engagement with the broader maker community. This engagement may be in person or virtual. This should include some activities beyond the required cohort meetings.
- Documented a volunteer or leadership role in at least one maker event or program.
- Shared reflections on issues of access as it relates to the maker program or event they are involved with.
- Reflections are connected to their maker philosophy and their UTeach experience.
Writing Prompts:
Some possible prompts to consider when writing this section include:
- What communities and spaces have you used to reach out for support and inspiration? Think broadly!
- How did the connection with these groups impact your maker philosophy, maker projects, or general experience?
- Why do you feel is it important to remain connected to maker communities?
- What challenges have you encountered or noticed regarding accessibility to making for all communities? What opportunities for growth do you see?
Maker Community Resources:
- Makers + Mentors Network
- co.lab - A community support makerspace in Austin, TX
- MakerEd.org
- #makered
- Maker Faire - Inspiration from Makers from the original Faire in the Bay area and all over the world. You’ll be blown away by what humans are creating.
