Makerspaces in the School Setting

Summary

Makerspaces in the School Setting transformed primary classrooms into creative learning environments where students solved authentic problems through STEAM, PBL and digital technologies. Teachers co-created and tested 20 interdisciplinary lesson scenarios and a practical manual, strengthening creativity, critical thinking, collaboration and digital competence. The project demonstrated how innovative teaching develops essential life skills and creates sustainable change across schools.  

"Our pupils discovered that learning is not about finding the right answer, but about asking better questions and creating solutions together." 

Topic(s) addressed

• Life skills 
• Critical thinking
• Creativity
• Collaboration 
• Scientific and digital literacy
• STEAM
• Project-based learning 
• Makerspaces
• Sustainability
• Environmental awareness
• AI literacy
• Problem-solving
• Active citizenship
• Inclusion

Target group(s)  

• Over 400 pupils and 32 primary school teachers

Methodologies used

The project transformed teaching by introducing makerspaces as a learner-centred methodology combining STEAM, project-based learning and competence-based education. Learning became interdisciplinary, inquiry-based and hands-on, with students designing, experimenting, building and reflecting on authentic challenges while teachers acted as facilitators and mentors. Twenty collaboratively developed lesson scenarios integrated formal and non-formal learning, digital storytelling, robotics, AI and sustainability. Formative assessment, peer collaboration and reflection supported the development of key competences, inclusion and active participation, while cooperation with external stakeholders enriched real-world learning experiences. 

Innovation environment

The project transformed classrooms into flexible makerspaces where students learned through exploration, experimentation and collaboration rather than passive instruction. Existing school spaces, outdoor environments and low-cost materials were combined with digital tools, robotics, AI and 3D design to create authentic learning experiences. Cross-curricular teams of teachers planned and delivered interdisciplinary activities, while international cooperation enabled the continuous exchange of good practice and the joint development of teaching resources. By embedding makerspace principles into school development plans, partner schools created sustainable environments that continue to support innovation beyond the project. 

Teachers’ role

Teachers were the key drivers of innovation throughout the project. After participating in international training in Poland and Türkiye, they co-developed, tested and refined the makerspace methodology by designing and piloting 20 interdisciplinary lesson scenarios in their own classrooms. Through peer learning, lesson observation and collaborative planning, they strengthened their competences in STEAM, project-based learning, AI, robotics, digital storytelling and formative assessment. As facilitators rather than lecturers, they empowered students to investigate, create, collaborate and reflect, while continuously improving their own practice through evaluation and international cooperation.  

Impact and output

Pupils developed creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, scientific reasoning, digital competence and responsible citizenship through authentic makerspace challenges. Inclusive, low-cost activities enabled the participation of learners with diverse abilities and backgrounds. The multilingual, open-access manual, Makerspaces in the School Setting, provides practical guidance, 20 tested lesson scenarios and sustainable implementation strategies. Together with the Makerspaces Community, eTwinning collaboration and multiplier events, it extends the project's impact to other schools, teachers, local communities and educational stakeholders. 

Learn more about the project