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ERIC Number: EJ1241452
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2020-Feb
Pages: 5
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-2158-0502
EISSN: N/A
Inclusive Makerspaces, Fab Labs, and STEM Labs
Love, Tyler S.; Roy, Ken R.; Marino, Matthew T.
Technology and Engineering Teacher, v79 n5 p23-27 Feb 2020
A strength of technology and engineering (T&E) education programs is that they provide a unique context for students with varying abilities to apply their knowledge and skills in nontraditional ways. These courses help prepare students with valuable skills needed for college and career readiness. Makerspaces, fab labs, and STEM labs often serve as the unique setting where these formal and informal T&E learning experiences occur. However, due to the amalgam of tools, equipment, chemicals, and other materials found in these spaces, they present potentially hazardous situations with resulting health and safety risks for any student or instructor. Moreover, students with disabilities may require additional accommodations or modifications to protect them and others from these hazards/risks. Providing accessible learning opportunities while upholding the safety of all occupants in a makerspace, fab lab, or STEM lab requires careful consideration, including planning, implementation, and active supervision. This article discusses the associated legal and safety obligations and recommends ways educators, school systems, libraries, makerspaces, fab labs, and STEM labs proactively address common issues to limit the risk of accidents involving individuals with disabilities and being found negligent or reckless.
International Technology and Engineering Educators Association. 1914 Association Drive Suite 201, Reston, VA 20191-1539. Tel: 703-860-2100; Fax: 703-860-0353; e-mail: iteea@iteea.org; Web site: https://www.iteea.org/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A