Kids who were enrolled at Maker Space classes in Madison, Wisconsin got to use advanced technology to make crafts for their parents. They were also taught in areas such as art, electronics, sewing, software and hardware.
The week-long learning experience was part of Sector67's Fractal Kids Class initiative, in which children from ages 6 to 12 are exposed to fun-filled educational activities. Sector67 is a nonprofit collaborative workspace where children and adults can learn, teach and work, as per Wisconsin State Journal.
"You get to meet other people," said McFarland fifth-grader Vivian Zabawa-Lodhol. "It's fun and you get to present to your parents what you've done."
Dayna Ball, a librarian at the Great Bend Public Library in Kansas, said Maker Space classes have quickly become a fad in the U.S. since it promotes learning through play. One of its main selling points is letting kids use 3-D printers.
Ball told GB Tribune that the machine is safe and user-friendly. Kids have to simply download a desired object from a computer and the 3-D printers will do the rest of the work. The machine heats plastic filament then form them into specific shapes and objects.
Aside from the 3-D printers, kids are taught how to use a laser-cutting machine as well as a modern sewing machine. They can also make their very own smartphone app or desktop computer game.
Fractal Kids Class founder Heather Wentler said the experience not only exposes kids to new technology, it also builds their confidence. Kids were easily frustrated at first, but they were able to learn quickly with the help of their new friends.
"You can see that growth and confidence," Wentler marvelled. "By the time they go home on Tuesday, it's a complete 180 (turnaround). They get to turn into their own community of support as the week goes on."
