A makerspace is a public space used for collaborative thinking, creativity, communication, and innovation (Horizon Report, 2018). It can be used by artists and engineers, used for robotics or 3-D modeling. Personally, I think this concept is still relatively new and I don’t think it’s been effectively utilized.
How would I design an emerging technology? First of all, I would collaborate with a group or community that have a NEED for it and for those who will USE it. Kind of like a library, there will always people using the space at all time. I wouldn’t want to spend the time and the money to set up a makerspace that wouldn’t be needed and then never used.
So, let’s say this space is designated for a robotics community near a university or a school, the makerspace would have all the latest robotics technology, software and hardware, for people to freely utilize. There will be computer stations, robotics building stations, trail and experimentation area, and maybe a robotics fighting arena. People of all ages would be welcome and there can be a possibility to utilize the space for classes, tutorials, and events. Similar to a library, the makerspace would be managed by a staff who can help guide and teach people how to use the equipment.
Another example would be to create a makerspace for AR or VR simulations in video game development. I think having this kind of space for gaming at or on a university campus could be a convenient way to centralize a lot of expensive technology for a small fee or membership. This would allow game developers and users to collaborate with each other, test and pilot games, and utilize the newest technology without having to buy it. It’s kind of like a gym or a rental service, while getting various members of the community involved.
If done right for a specific purpose, I think a makerspace can be pretty useful and effective.
