Makerspace@MHMS

The hot new Makerspace Movement is NOT new to Murray Hill Middle School. We opened the school with the idea that we would have creation labs in the Media Center, GT room, and the TV studio. We started with video production, iMovie, Specular LogoMotion, Hyperstudio, and animation with Hollyood High kids. Here’s an example of an EARLY (2003) video production called Bookfellas, featuring some Guy Ritchie-esque film direction techniques. These kids are now all grown up and we’ve kept evolving, too!

We have, however, expanded upon our Makerspace offerngs.  We’ve now added a Lego Creation Station, a Duct Tape Craft Cubby, and a Makey Makey Coding Corner. Kids can come in during lunch or when they’ve finished their work to explore and create in the Library Media Center. All this for about $350.oo. Teachers & Librarians – I invite you to see my professional blog next week for more info on how to get this setup in your library or classroom!

Next year, any donations of novelty duct tape rolls to the Media Center would be greatly appreciated!

Here’s an example of a cool stop action animation video by our Advanced Digital Media Team for the Environmental Fair. Created by MHMS 8th graders: Drew H, Prerana K, Joonseo P, & Gloria O.  This was created under the direction of GT Teacher, Mr. Mark Dunbar.

Meet Alexa!

We also have a new information tool in the library! (OK, I bought this with my own money and brought it into school) It’s the Amazon Echo! Have you heard of it? Since I’m not going to have an assistant full time next year, (don’t get me started!) I thought this could be a cool way to answer basic questions. Kids are delighted to discover Alexa, living in the Amazon Echo. Not only is it a fun way for kiddos to learn how to ask the right questions, to speak clearly, it also introduces them to the Internet of Things.

Yeah, sometimes we dance in the Library! That’s how we roll!

Get your charge on!

We also have a new Courtesy Mobile Device Charging Station in the MHMS Daring School Library Media Center! Moving closer to BYOD means that kiddos often come to the media center at lunch to charge up. Nothing too fancy, two super fast charging UNITEK 10 USB port hubs and a 4-in-1 USB Charging Cord.  This is just a start!

 

 

2 thoughts on “Makerspace@MHMS

  • January 20, 2016 at 1:48 pm
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    Hi! I have been reading your blog today and getting some great ideas for my media center! I want to have a charging station and am ordering the supplies you suggested. what is that box in the middle with the zebra stripes? also, do you make the students come to you to get the charging cable(s) to prevent them from walking away? How many cables do you have for two boxes? thanks so much!!!

  • January 27, 2016 at 8:44 pm
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    Hi Annie! Thank you so much for your comment! This blog posting is for my kiddos and parents. Please see my professional blog postings here,, here and here for more practical details about this. What’s in the middle between the two USB charging units is a heavy duty power strip that I put colorful zebra tape on. I bought 4-in-1 charging cords that I’ve zip tied to the side of the AV cart. If you have further questions feel free to email me at gwynethanne (@) gmail.com
    Cheers!
    @GwynethJones – on Twitter

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