3D-prints and Robots Play a Part in My Story. Participatory Learning Action and Content Creation in a Library Maker Space

Abstract

Book trailers and short how-to-use-the-library films. Mobile storytelling. Animations and user-made materials. New literacies. The use of mobile technology in creating content with children and young people has become an integral part of our work, since the first tablets and smartphones were obtained to our library in 2011. Another big change occurred when we started building a maker space and brought 3D printers and robots to the library during the summer of 2013.

Our library has had the opportunity to adapt and introduce new ways of using technology in learning to teachers and school groups. The fact that mobile technology makes content creation easier than ever before, is both an opportunity and a challenge. When we involve children in creating materials that are not only for school and learning, but for a public library to use and publish in the library and online, it brings a real edge to the action. The big issues of media education: privacy, good and bad digital footprints and understanding copyright are well addressed when we do not only talk, but create and publish.

When it comes to technology, we are not experts, but curious amateurs and co-learners. Mobile video tips and tricks were not taught in the university, neither was 3D printing. All this brings the old wisdom on the importance of imagination vs. knowledge to a whole new perspective. The act of introducing new, surprising technology mixes well together with introducing the world of books, fantasy, and fiction.