Makers' lab : designing hands-on educational materials to enrich upper primary science education

Abstract

Makers’ Lab aims to spur upper primary school students to think critically, creatively and apply scientific concepts to real life situations. It addresses the challenge confronting students to relate scientific knowledge in the real world. Informed by Constructivist learning, the Makers’ Lab Kit explores the topic, ‘Interactions – Forces’. Workshop materials on ‘Forces’ were developed to encourage discussion and collaboration amongst the students, leading to the development of three-dimensional models. Through this applied investigation on ‘Forces’, the Primary 4 students were tasked to create toys to depict force with the modelling kit, while the Primary 5 students were assigned to create an assistive tool for a person in need. Makers’ Lab also provides an opportunity to promote Civic literacy among students, enabling students to see how science can contribute to the greater good of society.