Digital (Community) Makerspace
About this good practice
The Digital Makerspace created in 2018 under the aegis of the Nyíregyháza Vocational Training Centre is an educational space, an open workshop where "traditional" professions (e.g. light industry) can be tried out in addition to digitization and robotics through experimentation. Students and visitors can get acquainted with laser engraving, CNC milling, embroidery, the operation of 3D printers, drones and robots. Besides specialist teachers, their activities are supported by a workshop manager and a workshop assistant. During the school year, the institution organizes classes for primary school and kindergarten groups who get to familiarize themselves with different professions and receive career guidance. These extracurricular programs also reduce the social disadvantage of students and develop their competencies.
All in all, the Makerspace offers opportunities for innovation through experimentation and instils the love of learning and technology in children as young as kindergarteners – even successfully steering some of them towards the STEM field.
Resources needed
The Comprehensive development of the Nyíregyháza Vocational Training Centre project was funded by an Operational Programme – its budget was 512,384,688 HUF, covering not just the creation of the Digital Makerspace, but also in-service teacher training and curriculum development, for example.
Evidence of success
In 2019, the local team discussed their experience gained so far, as well as their future plans and development opportunities during a dissemination event between 44 vocational training centres operating in the country.
The interest of the students in the Makerspace has not diminished since its establishment, even in the face of the pandemic restrictions.
Potential for learning or transfer
A Makerspace is a collaborative workspace equipped for making, prototyping and digital fabrication, offering not just space and tools, but also learning and networking opportunities. Young people need to learn how to use digital tools/technology, and this good practice is a good example of providing high-quality digital and technology-related education to a wide range of age groups.
The Digital (Community) Makerspace of Nyíregyháza has some similarities to other European cities’ respective organizations which is an opportunity for knowledge exchange.
Further information
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.