Expanding Mobile Makerspaces to Enhance Active Learning throughout Suffolk County Community College

Abstract

This project will expand the 2014 tier I SUNY IITG entitled “Creating Mobile Makerspaces to Support Experiential Learning” awarded to Suffolk County Community College’s Eastern campus library. The Tier II project will extend the Tier I successes to Suffolk’s other two campuses to provide active learning opportunities through the use of mobile makerspaces that enhance student learning and further student engagement. Mobile makerspaces are areas set aside for individuals to explore and create with technology which libraries can implement in minimal space. The new mobile makerspaces will be developed in partnership with academic departments to provide opportunities for active learning using 3D printing and video production. Additionally, informal active learning opportunities using these technologies will provide hands on experience with standard equipment used in the industry. The project will assess the effectiveness of mobile makerspaces on student engagement and discovery to serve as a model for the SUNY system.