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in science, engineering, and problem Modern-day public schools have more teacher and administrator focus. Only
solving (Cooper, 2013). A range of ac- accountability and responsibility placed when we provide our students with
tivities for makerspaces might include on them than ever before which can these opportunities for developing
cardboard construction, woodworking, result in many districts feeling disjointed complex thinking skills will we be
electronics, robotics, digital fabrication, on where to focus their time, energy, cultivating a generation of students
and others. These spaces are helping and resources. However, the research that is truly college and career ready.
to prepare students with 21st century presented here suggests that local
skills in the fields of science, technol- schools must harness the powers they
ogy, engineering, and mathematics have to evaluate and infuse complex
(STEM). Makerspaces also foster en- thinking skills into all elements of the
trepreneurship and are being utilize as intended curriculum as well as bringing
accelerators for business startups. complex thinking to the forefront of

References
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About the Author
Dr. Clifford R. Burns serves as an elementary principal in Randolph Township, New Jersey. He coaches
teachers in best practice instructional strategies that engage and empower students. Dr. Burns is also
interested in the design and evaluation of curricula that results in students becoming active problem
solvers and complex thinkers.

Email: cliffordburns@hotmail.com Twitter: @CliffordRBurns

Educational Viewpoints -25- Spring 2018