Maker Revolution

One of the main things that school systems try to focus on is the preparation of students for life after high school. We, as educators, want our students to be ready and able to live a very prosperous and successful life from the moment they cross that stage until the day they retire. Unfortunately, this goal is very hard to reach due to the very scripted school system we are forced to subject our students to. It is almost like we have to choose between high test scores and the building of character and successful life practices. Fortunately, the day has come where teachers have a movement they can merge into their everyday lesson plans; The Maker Revolution.

The Maker Revolution  is a movement where people are creating and remaking gadgets and devices. This movement is bringing in the era of do it yourself (DIY) and do it with others (DIWO). People are no longer wondering how to use the remote to turn on the tv or how to use the wheel of a car to turn left or right. Instead, they are now wondering why? Why is a remote built in such a way that a sensor controls the tv? Why is the car built so the wheel turns the entire car? They are even taking it a step further to ask themselves, what parts of my new discovery can be used to enhance the devices we already have or even create something completely new.

This revolution is the very thing that classrooms need! Just think of the enthusiasm that students would develop if, after learning how to solve and equation, they were able to apply that to rebuilding a computer. Or after learning lessons of compound interest,they could create their own banking system. Standards are continuously asking teachers to help their students become more innovative and creative. The  maker revolution is the answer to the development of these desired standards. Allow the students to bring in small gadgets and tinker with them. Give students permission to become innovators and creators. In return, the classroom will no longer feel like a chore. Students will value their education and have those successful practices instilled in them. Students have the ability to create, it's our responsibility to set up the correct environment for them.