Introducing the maker movement to information systems students

Abstract

This research reflects on the outcomes of a design thinking assignment given to first year Information Systems students. The assignment entailed the design and making of a corporate gift (or prototype thereof) by making use of the MakerSpace of the University of Pretoria. The assumption was that, by using the technologies provided by the MakerSpace, Information Systems first year students will get a tangible experience of applying design thinking. More importantly though, given the democratizing nature and economic potential of the Maker Movement, we hoped that by using the MakerSpace, students will get an understanding of the Maker Movement philosophy. From the students’ feedback, it appears that students characterized the MakerSpace as enjoyable, inspiring, creative and enabling. A number of students noticed the potential for building their own designs and the ease in which rapid prototyping can be done using 3D printing. By using three components comprising the Maker Movement (making, maker spaces and maker as identity) we show that the experience led to a good understanding amongst quite a number of students about what the Maker Movement entails.