Exploring Maker Cultures and Pedagogies to Bridge the Gaps for Students with Special Needs

Through this ethnographic study, the researchers investigate the efficacy of using "makerspace" pedagogies with students who are identified as having special needs. These pedagogies include the transferable skills and global competencies as outlined by the Ontario Ministry of education. The research questions address how teachers view changes in his/her special education students' behaviour and learning based on their participation in maker-related activities, including, but not limited to coding, programmable robots, and circuits, in the classroom. Teachers were supported through professional development by our STEAM 3D Maker Team at the Faculty of Education and then subsequent visits made to each of 20 different schools investigated how maker pedagogies were being employed. Qualitative data was collected in the form of digital video and audio recordings, photographs, observational field notes, and individual and focus group interviews. The data suggest that the use of maker pedagogies can facilitate a number of improved outcomes for students with exceptionalities, including confidence and perseverance, engagement and motivation, self-regulation, collaborative skills, and increased academic achievement.