Sustaining the Usefulness and Appeal of an Older Adult-led Makerspace through Developing and Adapting Resources.

ABSTRACT: Researchers are studying makerspaces as one way to support older adults in learning about and using new technologies and tools. In this paper, through a long-term (34 months), ethnographic approach, we study the ways that older adults arranged sociotechnical resources to sustain the community use of a makerspace. Our analysis identifies three interconnected resources that were developed: an adaptive staffing approach that could withstand constant personnel shifts and shortages; structured activities to draw interest and overcome challenges associated with learning to use the machines; and reference materials to support individuals in independent usage of the space. We describe the issues that arose as time went on with each of these resource types, and how individuals affiliated with the m

SUBMITTER: Hu R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11404555 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature