You probably remember sitting in class and asking yourself, "when will I ever use this in the real world?" This has to be one of the most commonly asked questions among students of all ages. Far too often, students fail to fully comprehend the relationship between what they are learning in the classroom and the real world. Bridging this gap between the two can make subject matter more interesting and better understandable, and this is what the Mobile Fab Lab is out to achieve.
The Mobile Fab Lab was co-developed by Motivo for California State University of Dominguez Hills to help address some of the issues currently present in the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields:
The need for qualified STEM educators in primary and secondary education
The absence of engaging STEM experiences that motivate and inspire the youth
The need for more minorities graduating with STEM degrees and pursuing STEM related careers
The Lab is outfitted with cutting-edge manufacturing tools and technology to engage the youth and educators in the STEM fields through hands-on project-based learning. It allows for the physical application of the theoretical concepts that are learned in the classroom to the real world, ultimately bringing the STEM fields to life and establishing relevance for the students in the sciences and technologies. The equipment found inside includes 3D printers, laser cutters, vacuum formers, vinyl cutter, and CNC milling machines to name a few.
The Mobile Fab Lab will be used throughout the Los Angeles area, traveling to several local schools bringing the hands-on learning and STEM-based activities right to the students and educators.