Dr. Deborah L. Duenyas, professor in the Counselor Education program, co-presented “Makerspaces in Action: Insights from PA Educators” with Dr. Roseanne Perkins, associate professor and program coordinator of Library Science and Learning Technologies at Kutztown University, at the Pennsylvania School Library Association (PSLA) Annual Conference in Altoona, Pennsylvania, April 17. This year’s conference brought together school library professionals and educators from across the Commonwealth.

Duenyas and Perkins’ presentation drew on findings from their phenomenological research study examining the lived experiences of K-12 educators currently integrating makerspace and maker-based learning activities into their schools.

From navigating the tension between democratizing access and systemic equity challenges to exploring where makerspaces fit within school curricula and library spaces, attendees gained insight into the real-world complexities facing makerspace educators today. Participant voices highlighted how makerspaces foster social-emotional learning, creative thinking, and a growth mindset in learners beyond traditional academic outcomes.