Electronics

Electrical Circuits

A basic understanding of how an electric circuit works is required before introducing them into a makerspace.

Tutorial One explains how basic circuits work. Tutorial Two will explain the need for resistance devices and the safety precautions which need to be considered in the set up of a makerspace (Watch this space or follow us on you tube for future tutorials).

Tutorial 1: How an Electrical Circuit Works

Video by Makers in the Middle authors

Materials

There are a plethora of programs available to learn about electronics. These programs include: MaKey, MaKey, Elenco Snap Circuits, Squishy CIrcuits, soft circuits, Adafruit, paper circuits, electronics.

If you are setting up a makerspace on a budget, simple materials such as multimeters, varible temperature soldering irons, batteries, conductive wires, switches, LEDs, fans are available for purchase at retail outlets such as Jaycar Electrical at a reasonable price.

Pull Apart Electronics

Pulling apart and cutting old electronic devices in half is a practical way of showing how electronics work. Make sure you disconnect all power inputs for safety.

Images by Makers in the Middle authors

Design Challenges

Setting design challenges is an engaging way for students to explore their ideas in an open ended environment. Here is an example of an electronics design challenge.

Design Challenge in toy making

Video by Makers in the Middle authors