Introducing Our Mobile Makerspace
The Mobile Makerspace: Paving the Future for Arkansas Schools & Communities
We are introducing Arkansas classrooms and communities to an innovative approach to collaborative, hands-on learning through our makerspace on wheels.
Mobile Impact Across Arkansas
20
Counties
7,061
Miles
7,574
Youth Reached
16,440
Total Reach
Not every school can afford the expense or time needed to visit the Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub and experience our unique STEAM learning opportunities. So in 2018, we partnered with community leaders to create a mobile makerspace (MMS) that takes the technology currently available at the Hub—like laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC Routers, and more—to underserved and rural communities and schools across the state.
The MMS is an 7’x16′ trailer specially outfitted to carry our mobile makercarts. These units allow us to bring a makerspace into Arkansas classrooms and provide hands-on education utilizing a variety of state-of-the-art tools. Our curriculum is designed to explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math subjects using a project-based interdisciplinary model that is fun. Sessions include real tools and real-world problem-solving that will challenge and inspire youth as well as teachers.
We also visit community centers, libraries, youth and elderly facilities—and can provide industrial job training or corporate team-building using digital fabrication tools.
Simply put, we inspire youth and adults to learn more about 21st Century technologies, enabling them to become makers, artists, and entrepreneurs.
Hands-On Projects Inspire Fun & Critical Design Thinking Skills:
2019 Curriculum
Screen Printing & Vector Design
Students will create artwork using a vector design program and use a combination of screen printing and heat press materials to customize their own tote bag.
Intro to Printmaking
Students are introduced to printmaking through creating an art gallery of prints based on the theme of making the world a better place. Students will learn brainstorming, design, and basic tools, materials, and methods of printmaking utilizing a 3D-printed press.
Laser Cutting & Vector Design
Students learn how lasers work and use them to engrave coasters after creating their own artwork in a vector design program.
Intro to 3D Printing & Modeling
Students will design 3D models and be introduced to dimensionality.
scrappy circuits
Students learn about simple circuits in this fun hands-on activity that involves “hacking” an LED tea light.
Intro to Entrepreneurship
In this add-on module, students learn how to start their own Etsy stores and are introduced to branding & marketing for their businesses.
Bring the Mobile Makerspace to Your Community
Our mobile facility presents exciting, hands-on education at schools, community centers, churches, libraries, youth facilities and many other locations! Inquire here for more information about what the MMS can offer your area.
Rolling Out…Thanks to Our Sponsors
It takes a village! We couldn’t do this without the great folks and organizations who have sponsored us. We are deeply grateful to AT&T, Bale Chevrolet, Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation, and Union Pacific for their generous contributions which allow us to bring the Mobile Makerspace to your community free of charge.
The Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub is a proud affiliate of Winrock International.
FIND US IN NLR
Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub
204 E 4th St
North Little Rock, AR 72114
OUR HOURS
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Innovation Hub is only open to members at this time.
Hours of operation vary by area and require a reservation. The schedule and guidelines can be found here.