Maker Spaces
Maker spaces are spaces where play and experimentation are encouraged. While they are the home to many powerful fabrication tools, the real power of a maker space are the methods and mindsets. In moving from the abstract to the tangible, it becomes possible to play with ideas and construct meaning.
We currently manage two maker spaces on grounds: the Maker Open Studio (MOS) in Wilson 141 and the Maker Open Lab (MOL) in Chem 202. We are also part of the Maker Grounds community and serve as an entry point for students who want to become involved in maker spaces, shops, and studios across grounds.
What kind of work happens in a maker space?
While certain tools are typical in maker spaces (e.g. 3D printers), the work is bounded by the intent, not the tools. The intent of a maker space is to play with and explore ideas as tangible objects: pick them up, pass them around, take them apart, put them together, connect and disconnect them. The physical work of a maker space might be highly technical, or it might be as low-tech as pen and paper. The key to using a maker space well is to imagine how to externalize thinking as artefacts that can be examined, critiqued, and re-made as needed. It is process oriented instead of product oriented.
All are welcome
We consider our spaces as "zero barrier to entry" spaces, which means we welcome and celebrate complete novices. Our users vary in their skill levels from zero to expert, and peer communities of practice for every skill level emerge within them. We strongly encourage faculty and students who are curious about maker spaces but, for whatever reason, have trouble imagining themselves in a maker community, to come and explore our spaces.
The Maker Open Studio (MOS)
Wilson Hall 141
A space for critical and creative experimentation with a focus on Arts & Humanities.
The Maker Open Lab (MOL)
Chemistry 202
A learning space for creative engagement with STEM.
Safety in a Maker Space
Solder Fumes
Our spaces use only lead-free solder. We have fume extractors, which we strongly encourage our makers to use. When the fume extractors are on and positioned properly above the soldering area, the measured concentration of PNOC (Particles Not Otherwise Classified) maxes out at 0.1 mg/M^3 with an average of 0.033. This is well below the established safe limit of 3.0 mg/M^3. Read the report and see the data here.
