Community Maker Space Design Challenge
Created byNancy Whitted
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Community Maker Space Design Challenge

Grade 9English15 days
5.0 (1 rating)
In this project, students design an innovative and sustainable maker space that fosters community collaboration, inclusivity, and diverse project engagement. They will learn about the design thinking process, sustainable design principles, and community collaboration. Students will conduct community needs assessments, develop sustainable design strategies, and create design proposals, culminating in a presentation to stakeholders to communicate their vision effectively and incorporate feedback.
Maker Space DesignCommunity CollaborationSustainable DesignInclusivityProject ManagementDesign Thinking
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How might we design an innovative and sustainable maker space that fosters community collaboration, inclusivity, and diverse project engagement while effectively communicating our vision to stakeholders?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • How can we design a space that fosters creativity and collaboration within our community?
  • What makes a space accessible and inclusive for a diverse range of users and needs?
  • How can the design of a physical space influence the types of activities and projects that take place within it?
  • In what ways can we use sustainable design principles to minimize the environmental impact of our maker space?
  • How can we effectively communicate our design ideas and vision to stakeholders and community members?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Students will learn about the design thinking process.
  • Students will learn about sustainable design principles.
  • Students will learn about community collaboration.
  • Students will learn how to communicate their ideas effectively to stakeholders.
  • Students will create a design for a maker space.
  • Students will learn about inclusivity and accessibility in design.
  • Students will learn how to manage a project from start to finish.
  • Students will learn about different types of projects that can be completed in a maker space.
  • Students will learn about the environmental impact of design.
  • Students will learn about the needs of different community members.
  • Students will learn about project management.
  • Students will learn about innovative design.
  • Students will learn about different communication strategies.
  • Students will learn about the importance of vision in design.
  • Students will learn about the maker space movement.
  • Students will learn about the history of maker spaces.
  • Students will learn about the future of maker spaces.
  • Students will learn about the different types of maker spaces.
  • Students will learn about the different tools and equipment that are used in maker spaces.
  • Students will learn about the safety procedures that are followed in maker spaces.
  • Students will learn about the different types of projects that can be completed in maker spaces.
  • Students will learn about the different skills that are needed to work in a maker space.
  • Students will learn about the different careers that are related to maker spaces.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote community development.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote economic development.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote social justice.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote environmental sustainability.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote education.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote innovation.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote creativity.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote problem-solving.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote critical thinking.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote collaboration.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote communication.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote leadership.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote citizenship.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote global awareness.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote cultural understanding.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote personal growth.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-esteem.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote resilience.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote perseverance.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote grit.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-advocacy.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-direction.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-regulation.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-efficacy.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-awareness.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-acceptance.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-love.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-compassion.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-forgiveness.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-care.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-respect.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-responsibility.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-accountability.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-improvement.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-actualization.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-transcendence.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-discovery.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-expression.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-acceptance.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-love.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-compassion.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-forgiveness.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-care.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-respect.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-responsibility.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-accountability.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-improvement.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-actualization.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-transcendence.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-discovery.
  • Students will learn about the different ways that maker spaces can be used to promote self-expression.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

Maker Space Design Slam

Students participate in a 'Maker Space Design Slam,' a timed competition where they rapidly prototype maker space designs using limited resources. This fast-paced challenge encourages creative problem-solving and collaboration while introducing them to design constraints and the iterative design process.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

Maker Space History Report

Students will research the history of maker spaces, including their origins, evolution, and impact on communities. They will explore different types of maker spaces and their unique features.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Conduct online research to find information about the history of maker spaces.
2. Identify key milestones and influential figures in the maker space movement.
3. Explore different types of maker spaces and their unique features.
4. Write a detailed report summarizing your findings.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed report on the history of maker spaces, including key milestones, influential figures, and examples of successful maker spaces.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses the learning goal of understanding the maker space movement and its history.
Activity 2

Project Management Blueprint

Students will learn about project management principles and how to apply them to the maker space design project. They will create a project plan, including timelines, resources, and milestones.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Learn about project management principles and methodologies.
2. Define the scope and objectives of the maker space design project.
3. Create a project timeline with key milestones and deadlines.
4. Identify and allocate resources needed for the project.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comprehensive project plan for the maker space design project, including a timeline, resource allocation, and milestones.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers learning goals related to project management and design thinking.
Activity 3

Community Needs Assessment

Students will conduct surveys and interviews with community members to understand their needs and preferences for a maker space. They will analyze the data and identify key design considerations to ensure inclusivity and accessibility.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Develop a survey to gather information about community needs and preferences for a maker space.
2. Conduct interviews with community members to gather qualitative data.
3. Analyze the survey and interview data to identify key design considerations.
4. Write a report summarizing the findings and recommendations.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comprehensive needs assessment report based on community surveys and interviews, highlighting key design considerations for inclusivity and accessibility.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsFocuses on learning goals related to inclusivity, accessibility, and community needs.
Activity 4

Sustainable Design Strategy

Students will research sustainable design principles and explore ways to minimize the environmental impact of the maker space. They will identify eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies to incorporate into the design.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research sustainable design principles and best practices.
2. Identify eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies for the maker space.
3. Develop a plan for minimizing the environmental impact of the maker space.
4. Present the sustainable design plan to the class.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA sustainable design plan for the maker space, including a list of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and strategies for minimizing environmental impact.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses learning goals related to sustainable design principles and environmental impact.
Activity 5

Design Proposal Presentation

Students will create a detailed design proposal for the maker space, including floor plans, 3D models, and visualizations. They will present their design proposal to a panel of stakeholders, effectively communicating their vision and ideas.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Create floor plans and 3D models of the maker space design.
2. Develop visualizations to showcase the design and its features.
3. Prepare a presentation to communicate the design proposal to stakeholders.
4. Present the design proposal and gather feedback from stakeholders.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA comprehensive design proposal for the maker space, including floor plans, 3D models, visualizations, and a presentation to stakeholders.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCovers learning goals related to innovative design and communication strategies.
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Maker Space Design Rubric

Category 1

Maker Space History Report

Assesses students' ability to research, analyze, and synthesize information about the history, key figures, and types of maker spaces.
Criterion 1

Historical Research

Depth of research into the history of maker spaces, including origins, evolution, and impact.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exceptional research into the history of maker spaces, including a detailed analysis of their origins, evolution, and impact on communities. Provides comprehensive evidence from multiple sources.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates thorough research into the history of maker spaces, including their origins, evolution, and impact on communities. Provides clear evidence from credible sources.

Developing
2 Points

Shows emerging research into the history of maker spaces, with some understanding of their origins, evolution, and impact. Provides limited evidence.

Beginning
1 Points

Shows initial research into the history of maker spaces, with minimal understanding of their origins, evolution, and impact. Provides insufficient evidence.

Criterion 2

Milestones and Figures

Identification of key milestones and influential figures in the maker space movement.

Exemplary
4 Points

Identifies and analyzes key milestones and influential figures in the maker space movement with insightful commentary and comprehensive detail. Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of their significance.

Proficient
3 Points

Identifies key milestones and influential figures in the maker space movement with clear explanations. Demonstrates a thorough understanding of their significance.

Developing
2 Points

Identifies some key milestones and influential figures in the maker space movement with basic descriptions. Shows emerging understanding of their significance.

Beginning
1 Points

Identifies few milestones and influential figures in the maker space movement with minimal descriptions. Shows initial understanding of their significance.

Criterion 3

Types of Maker Spaces

Exploration of different types of maker spaces and their unique features.

Exemplary
4 Points

Explores a wide variety of maker spaces, providing detailed descriptions of their unique features and innovative approaches. Demonstrates exceptional understanding of different maker space models.

Proficient
3 Points

Explores different types of maker spaces, providing clear descriptions of their unique features. Demonstrates thorough understanding of different maker space models.

Developing
2 Points

Explores some types of maker spaces, providing basic descriptions of their features. Shows emerging understanding of different maker space models.

Beginning
1 Points

Explores few types of maker spaces, providing minimal descriptions of their features. Shows initial understanding of different maker space models.

Criterion 4

Report Clarity and Organization

Clarity and organization of the report, including writing quality and presentation.

Exemplary
4 Points

The report is exceptionally clear, well-organized, and effectively communicates findings. Writing is sophisticated and engaging, demonstrating excellent command of language.

Proficient
3 Points

The report is clear, well-organized, and effectively communicates findings. Writing is proficient and demonstrates good command of language.

Developing
2 Points

The report is somewhat clear and organized, with some communication of findings. Writing shows emerging command of language.

Beginning
1 Points

The report lacks clarity and organization, with limited communication of findings. Writing shows initial command of language.

Category 2

Project Management Blueprint

Assesses students' ability to apply project management principles to the maker space design project, including defining scope, creating timelines, and allocating resources.
Criterion 1

Project Management Principles

Understanding and application of project management principles and methodologies.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of project management principles and methodologies, applying them innovatively to the maker space design project. Shows exceptional leadership in project planning.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates a thorough understanding of project management principles and methodologies, applying them effectively to the maker space design project. Contributes effectively to project planning.

Developing
2 Points

Shows emerging understanding of project management principles and methodologies, applying them inconsistently to the maker space design project. Participates in project planning.

Beginning
1 Points

Shows initial understanding of project management principles and methodologies, struggling with their application to the maker space design project. Requires support in project planning.

Criterion 2

Scope and Objectives

Definition of scope and objectives for the maker space design project.

Exemplary
4 Points

Defines the scope and objectives of the maker space design project with exceptional clarity and foresight. Objectives are ambitious, innovative, and clearly aligned with community needs and project goals.

Proficient
3 Points

Defines the scope and objectives of the maker space design project with clarity and precision. Objectives are well-aligned with community needs and project goals.

Developing
2 Points

Defines the scope and objectives of the maker space design project with some clarity. Objectives are generally aligned with community needs and project goals.

Beginning
1 Points

Defines the scope and objectives of the maker space design project with limited clarity. Objectives are loosely aligned with community needs and project goals.

Criterion 3

Project Timeline

Creation of a project timeline with key milestones and deadlines.

Exemplary
4 Points

Creates a detailed and realistic project timeline with key milestones and deadlines that demonstrates exceptional foresight and planning. Timeline is adaptable and considers potential challenges.

Proficient
3 Points

Creates a clear and organized project timeline with key milestones and deadlines. Timeline is realistic and well-structured.

Developing
2 Points

Creates a basic project timeline with some key milestones and deadlines. Timeline is somewhat realistic but may lack detail.

Beginning
1 Points

Creates an incomplete project timeline with few key milestones and deadlines. Timeline is unrealistic and lacks detail.

Criterion 4

Resource Allocation

Identification and allocation of resources needed for the project.

Exemplary
4 Points

Identifies and allocates resources needed for the project with exceptional efficiency and innovation. Resource allocation is optimized for sustainability and community impact.

Proficient
3 Points

Identifies and allocates resources needed for the project effectively. Resource allocation is practical and well-justified.

Developing
2 Points

Identifies and allocates some resources needed for the project. Resource allocation is partially justified.

Beginning
1 Points

Identifies and allocates few resources needed for the project. Resource allocation is poorly justified.

Category 3

Community Needs Assessment

Assesses students' ability to gather and analyze community needs and preferences for the maker space, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility in the design.
Criterion 1

Survey Development

Development of a survey to gather information about community needs and preferences.

Exemplary
4 Points

Develops an exceptionally comprehensive and insightful survey that elicits detailed information about community needs and preferences. Survey questions are unbiased, clear, and highly relevant.

Proficient
3 Points

Develops a thorough survey that gathers clear information about community needs and preferences. Survey questions are clear and relevant.

Developing
2 Points

Develops a basic survey that gathers some information about community needs and preferences. Survey questions are somewhat clear and relevant.

Beginning
1 Points

Develops an incomplete survey that gathers limited information about community needs and preferences. Survey questions are unclear and irrelevant.

Criterion 2

Community Interviews

Conducting interviews with community members to gather qualitative data.

Exemplary
4 Points

Conducts exceptionally insightful and thorough interviews with community members, gathering rich qualitative data. Demonstrates exceptional interviewing skills and empathy.

Proficient
3 Points

Conducts thorough interviews with community members, gathering clear qualitative data. Demonstrates effective interviewing skills.

Developing
2 Points

Conducts basic interviews with community members, gathering some qualitative data. Shows emerging interviewing skills.

Beginning
1 Points

Conducts incomplete interviews with community members, gathering limited qualitative data. Shows initial interviewing skills.

Criterion 3

Data Analysis

Analysis of survey and interview data to identify key design considerations.

Exemplary
4 Points

Analyzes survey and interview data with exceptional depth and insight, identifying key design considerations that are highly relevant and innovative. Demonstrates sophisticated critical thinking.

Proficient
3 Points

Analyzes survey and interview data thoroughly, identifying key design considerations that are clearly relevant. Demonstrates effective critical thinking.

Developing
2 Points

Analyzes survey and interview data with some depth, identifying some key design considerations. Shows emerging critical thinking.

Beginning
1 Points

Analyzes survey and interview data superficially, identifying few key design considerations. Shows initial critical thinking.

Criterion 4

Report Clarity

Clarity and comprehensiveness of the needs assessment report.

Exemplary
4 Points

The needs assessment report is exceptionally clear, comprehensive, and insightful, providing detailed recommendations. Writing is sophisticated and engaging, demonstrating excellent command of language.

Proficient
3 Points

The needs assessment report is clear, comprehensive, and provides clear recommendations. Writing is proficient and demonstrates good command of language.

Developing
2 Points

The needs assessment report is somewhat clear and comprehensive, with some recommendations. Writing shows emerging command of language.

Beginning
1 Points

The needs assessment report lacks clarity and comprehensiveness, with limited recommendations. Writing shows initial command of language.

Category 4

Sustainable Design Strategy

Assesses students' ability to research sustainable design principles, identify eco-friendly materials, and develop a plan for minimizing the environmental impact of the maker space.
Criterion 1

Sustainable Design Research

Research into sustainable design principles and best practices.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates exceptional research into sustainable design principles and best practices, providing comprehensive and insightful details. Shows a deep understanding of environmental stewardship.

Proficient
3 Points

Demonstrates thorough research into sustainable design principles and best practices, providing clear and relevant details. Shows a good understanding of environmental stewardship.

Developing
2 Points

Shows emerging research into sustainable design principles and best practices, providing some relevant details. Shows basic understanding of environmental stewardship.

Beginning
1 Points

Shows initial research into sustainable design principles and best practices, providing limited details. Shows minimal understanding of environmental stewardship.

Criterion 2

Material and Technology Selection

Identification of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies.

Exemplary
4 Points

Identifies a wide range of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies, providing detailed justifications for their selection based on sustainability and performance.

Proficient
3 Points

Identifies eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies, providing clear justifications for their selection.

Developing
2 Points

Identifies some eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies, providing basic justifications for their selection.

Beginning
1 Points

Identifies few eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient technologies, providing minimal justifications for their selection.

Criterion 3

Environmental Impact Plan

Development of a plan for minimizing the environmental impact of the maker space.

Exemplary
4 Points

Develops an exceptionally innovative and comprehensive plan for minimizing the environmental impact of the maker space, integrating multiple strategies and demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

Proficient
3 Points

Develops a thorough plan for minimizing the environmental impact of the maker space, integrating clear and practical strategies.

Developing
2 Points

Develops a basic plan for minimizing the environmental impact of the maker space, integrating some strategies.

Beginning
1 Points

Develops an incomplete plan for minimizing the environmental impact of the maker space, integrating few strategies.

Criterion 4

Presentation Skills

Effectiveness and clarity of the presentation of the sustainable design plan.

Exemplary
4 Points

The presentation is exceptionally engaging, clear, and persuasive, effectively communicating the sustainable design plan to the class. Demonstrates excellent presentation skills and passion for sustainability.

Proficient
3 Points

The presentation is clear, organized, and effectively communicates the sustainable design plan to the class. Demonstrates good presentation skills.

Developing
2 Points

The presentation is somewhat clear and organized, with some communication of the sustainable design plan. Shows emerging presentation skills.

Beginning
1 Points

The presentation lacks clarity and organization, with limited communication of the sustainable design plan. Shows initial presentation skills.

Category 5

Design Proposal Presentation

Assesses students' ability to create a detailed design proposal for the maker space, including floor plans, 3D models, visualizations, and a presentation to stakeholders.
Criterion 1

Floor Plans and Models

Creation of detailed floor plans and 3D models of the maker space design.

Exemplary
4 Points

Creates exceptionally detailed, accurate, and innovative floor plans and 3D models that showcase a sophisticated understanding of spatial design and functionality. Models are visually stunning and highly informative.

Proficient
3 Points

Creates detailed and accurate floor plans and 3D models that showcase a thorough understanding of spatial design and functionality. Models are visually appealing and informative.

Developing
2 Points

Creates basic floor plans and 3D models that show some understanding of spatial design and functionality. Models are partially informative.

Beginning
1 Points

Creates incomplete floor plans and 3D models that show limited understanding of spatial design and functionality. Models are minimally informative.

Criterion 2

Visualizations

Development of visualizations to showcase the design and its features.

Exemplary
4 Points

Develops exceptionally creative and compelling visualizations that effectively showcase the design and its features, creating a strong and memorable impression on stakeholders.

Proficient
3 Points

Develops clear and effective visualizations that showcase the design and its features, providing a comprehensive understanding of the proposal.

Developing
2 Points

Develops basic visualizations that showcase some aspects of the design and its features. Shows emerging visualization skills.

Beginning
1 Points

Develops incomplete visualizations that showcase limited aspects of the design and its features. Shows initial visualization skills.

Criterion 3

Presentation Preparation

Preparation of a presentation to communicate the design proposal to stakeholders.

Exemplary
4 Points

Prepares an exceptionally engaging and persuasive presentation that effectively communicates the design proposal to stakeholders, demonstrating exceptional communication and leadership skills.

Proficient
3 Points

Prepares a clear and well-organized presentation that effectively communicates the design proposal to stakeholders, demonstrating good communication skills.

Developing
2 Points

Prepares a somewhat clear and organized presentation that communicates the design proposal to stakeholders. Shows emerging communication skills.

Beginning
1 Points

Prepares an unclear and disorganized presentation that poorly communicates the design proposal to stakeholders. Shows initial communication skills.

Criterion 4

Presentation Effectiveness

Effectiveness of the presentation in communicating the design proposal and gathering feedback.

Exemplary
4 Points

Presents the design proposal with exceptional clarity and persuasiveness, effectively engaging stakeholders and gathering valuable feedback. Demonstrates exceptional adaptability and responsiveness.

Proficient
3 Points

Presents the design proposal clearly and effectively, engaging stakeholders and gathering useful feedback. Demonstrates good adaptability and responsiveness.

Developing
2 Points

Presents the design proposal with some clarity, engaging stakeholders to a limited extent and gathering some feedback. Shows emerging adaptability and responsiveness.

Beginning
1 Points

Presents the design proposal unclearly, failing to engage stakeholders and gathering minimal feedback. Shows initial adaptability and responsiveness.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

How did your understanding of community needs evolve throughout the project, and how did this influence your final maker space design?

Text
Required
Question 2

To what extent do you feel your final design proposal effectively incorporates sustainable design principles? Explain your reasoning.

Scale
Required
Question 3

What was the most significant challenge you faced during the maker space design process, and how did you overcome it?

Text
Required
Question 4

In what ways did your team collaborate to create an inclusive and accessible maker space design? Provide specific examples.

Text
Required
Question 5

How confident are you in your ability to present design proposals effectively to stakeholders? What are some areas you would like to improve in the future?

Scale
Required
Question 6

Which aspect of the maker space design process (history, project management, community needs, sustainability, design proposal) did you find most engaging, and why?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
History of Maker Spaces
Project Management
Community Needs Assessment
Sustainable Design
Design Proposal