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Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related institutions.
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We are developing a number of these labs for both science centers
and universities for audiences that range from young children to college
students, not only here in the United States, but in Europe too.

In any of these makers environments, I know from experience that it is
essential to the success of a Makers type space to have the properly
trained staff for technical and design support - always. Unlike most
traditional exhibits and programs, these spaces need constant hands on
support.

This is because participants' needs run the gamut from help on how to use
tools, how to solder, following
safety procedures, constructions techniques, to things like
electrical/mechanical/digital problem solving, conceptualizing,
feasibility and liability. The list is long.

For example, some of the precision tools like 3D printers, etc. need
attention to operate properly, and the right setup for models and  files.
This is not something most visitors can figure out by trial and error or by
using some kind of interactive instructions.

Any institution considering this type of activity needs to have as part if
their requirements and included in their operating budget the right staff.

On Mon, Dec 24, 2012 at 11:15 AM, Paul Orselli <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> ISEN-ASTC-L is a service of the Association of Science-Technology Centers
> Incorporated, a worldwide network of science museums and related
> institutions.
>
> *****************************************************************************
>
> Season's Greetings!
>
> A client is interested in a Maker-type space in their new building, but is
> wondering if it is possible for this type of space to be unstaffed (at
> least at times.)
>
> It seems counterintuitive to me to have a space with tools and materials
> that is not staffed, but perhaps folks on the list might be able to provide
> some successful examples of (or techniques for) unstaffed Maker-type spaces?
>
> Conversely, feel free to chime in if you think unstaffed Maker spaces are
> a loopy idea.
>
> ----------------------------------------------------------
>
> Paul Orselli, President and Chief Instigator
>
> Paul Orselli Workshop (POW!)
> World Headquarters
> 1684 Victoria Street
> Baldwin, NY  11510
>
> (516) 223-1043
>
> POW! website
> <http://www.orselli.net>
>
> Exhibit tips + tricks at the ExhibiTricks blog:
> <http://blog.orselli.net>
>
> ***********************************************************************
> For information about the Association of Science-Technology Centers and
> the Informal Science Education Network please visit www.astc.org.
>
> Check out the latest case studies and reviews on ExhibitFiles at
> www.exhibitfiles.org.
>
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For information about the Association of Science-Technology Centers and the Informal Science Education Network please visit www.astc.org.

Check out the latest case studies and reviews on ExhibitFiles at www.exhibitfiles.org.

The ISEN-ASTC-L email list is powered by LISTSERVR software from L-Soft. To learn more, visit
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