Two years ago, school librarians in our district were asking questions about creating active learning environments for students that incorporate a variety of technology tools. Some were already purchasing these tools. Others felt overwhelmed by the options available and the integration of such tools.
In response, we created Tinker Tubs, mobile tubs that may be checked out by school librarians for two weeks at a time. The tubs had two purposes: to test the tools for future purchases and to supplement a current makerspace collection. The librarians were able to check out the items, utilize in the library with a variety of classes, and develop a vision for integrating tools like these on a permanent basis. With limited budgets, the librarians wanted to get the best deal on many tech tools – many tried out the tubs and then were able to make purchases based on usability, comfort level, and integration possibilities. We also provided tools that would work for a variety of grade levels, so librarians could determine the best tool for their grade levels.
Each tub contains the technology tool(s), manuals, inventory sheets, and necessary supplies, including batteries. We found tubs with wheels for easy transport and labeled the tubs and all contents with Sharpies and stickers.
Tub Contents
- Robot Tub #1: Contains Spheros, BB-8 Sphero, and Ollies
- Robot Tub #2 & #3: Wonder Dash and Dot Robots
- Robot #4: Edison Robots, Cubelets and Finch Robots
- VR Tub: Virtual Reality Headsets and iPods
- Kano Computing Tub: Kano Computing Kits
- Osmo Tub: Osmo Kits including Words, Numbers, Tangram, and Coding
- Circuit Tub: Little Bits
- Coding Tub: Variety of activities including Robot Turtles Board Game, Little Code, and Beebot Robots
For checkout procedures, we utilize the Google Calendar for librarians to view availability. Once a school receives the tub, librarians may utilize the Tinker Tub web page to access guides, videos, and additional details for using the tubs.
Once complete, an inventory is taken of the tub and then sent to the next building.
Additional Details
Author: Becca Munson
Becca Munson, Librarian, is a National Board Certified Teacher with over 23 years of experience in education. She is currently a school librarian at Blue Valley West High School in Overland Park, KS. Becca continues to find ways to positively impact student learning with literacy initiatives, technology integration, and building rapport with students and staff. Follow her on Twitter to view the library in action @bvwlibrary and @beccamunson .
Categories: Blog Topics, Makerspaces/Learning Commons, Technology
I have just started a maker space time during media classes using donated supplies. I have money to spend but want to make sense and out of all the equipment available for sale. Suggestions?