Makerspaces and XR Toybox to enhance teaching, learning, research, and innovation: The case of the University of Pretoria Department of Library Services

Abstract

The University of Pretoria (UP) launched the first Makerspace in South Africa at its main campus in Hatfield to enhance teaching, learning, research and innovation. The main campus was chosen strategically because it is home to various faculties, making it easier for the library to collaborate with the faculties. The facility enables academics, researchers, and students to develop prototypes, experiment with ideas, and be innovative. Currently, the DLS is in the process of creating a customised Makerspace for the Education faculty designed to meet the needs of Education students. In addition to Makerspaces, Health Sciences library features the XR Toybox (Extended Reality), which is designed to transform medical student learning experiences, and improve medical education. This study examines and presents user experiences in both Makerspaces and XR Toybox facilities, as well as best practices, lessons learnt, and benefits of these spaces within library services. Furthermore, the study highlights partnerships the library has established amongst various faculties through these spaces, as well as how the positioning of these spaces caters to the distinct needs of the different faculties. This is a qualitative case study methodology. This method enables researchers to explore Makerspaces and the XR Toybox. The objectives of this study are the following. • examine user experiences in both the makerspaces and XR Toybox facilities. • present best practices, lessons learnt, and benefits of these facilities within library services.