Seeking a space to create and explore through innovative, collaborative, immersion learning? Visit the University of Iowa College of Education's Educational Makerspace!

The makerspace is focused on providing a welcoming and inclusive environment that supports formal and informal learning with an interdisciplinary approach. Our goal is to empower students and faculty by fostering creativity, collaboration, and hands-on exploration. Through access to cutting-edge tools, software, and resources, we aim to inspire innovation, critical thinking, and lifelong learning.

Our makerspace serves as a hub where individuals can engage in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) providing our pre-service teachers with the tools to teach 21st century skills in a dynamic classroom environment.

Makerspace Technology

The technologies housed in the Educational Makerspace mirror what pre-service teachers can expect to find in school Makerspaces makerspaces throughout Iowa. Guided by professional staff, COE College of Education students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with these teaching tools and develop a skill set that will aid them in their future roles as classroom teachers. Some of the Technologies technologies include:

  • Prusa Mini 3D Printers: These precision machines transform digital designs into physical reality. Whether you’re sculpting intricate prototypes or crafting functional parts, our 3D printers empower your creativity.
  • Universal Laser Cutter/Engraver: With laser precision, you can etch, engrave, and cut a variety of materials—wood, acrylic, and more.
  • ShopBot Desktop Max CNC Router: Step into the world of computer-controlled machining. Carve, mill, and shape materials with finesse.
  • Roland CAMM-1 Desktop Vinyl Cutter: Design custom decals, signage, and labels. Express your message in vinyl.
  • Sphero Bolt Robots: Code, program, and guide these robot marvels through mazes, challenges, and educational adventures.
  • Arduino Microcontrollers: Dive into electronics. Build circuits, automate processes, and explore the Internet of Things (IoT).
  • Makey Makeys: Turn everyday objects into interactive interfaces. A banana piano is just the beginning.
  • Snap Circuits: Unleash your inner electrical engineer. Snap together components to create circuits and explore principles of electricity.
  • DeWalt Power Tools: From drills to saws, our workshop equips you for craftsmanship and practical skills.
  • A Plethora of Electrical Components: Resistors, capacitors, LEDs—your toolkit for experimentation.
  • Alienware R15 Computer workstations: High powered computers capable of 2D and 3D design work, Virtual Reality (VR) development, programming/coding and digital art and animation.

Location, Hours & Reservations

The Educational Makerspace is open to all College of Education students and faculty at no charge. The space can be booked for classes Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If the facility is not booked for classes, open studio days are currently Thursdays and Fridays  9a.m. to 4 p.m. 

The Educational Makerspace is currently located in Room 052 of the Kirkwood Regional Center at the University of Iowa, 2301 Oakdale Blvd, Coralville, IA 52241.

To book a tour of the facility or time for your class to utilize the makerspace please contact:

Darrell Currington , Makerspace Facilitator
Department of Teaching and Learning
N272 Lindquist Center
darrell-currington@uiowa.edu
(319) 467-1408

Makerspace technology