The Role of Makerspaces in Academic Libraries: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

Makerspaces in the last couple of decades have gained popularity in different types of libraries and academic libraries in higher education institutions are no exception.  Based on a hands-on learning approach and peer-to-peer learning, it is generally perceived that makerspaces support in enhancing students’ learning and creativity. Therefore, to assess the influence of makerspaces on students’ learning and creativity in academic libraries, we decided to adopt a systematic literature review approach. For this purpose, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) was used as a guideline for the study. Five major scholarly databases including Scopus, LISTA, Taylor and Francis, Springerlink and Google Scholar were searched for the relevant literature. The search literature was carefully assessed to determine eligibility of the studies for inclusion according to predefined criteria in order to answer the research questions. Findings of the study suggested that makerspaces significantly impact student learning and creativity, problem-solving abilities, and interdisciplinary learning while presenting challenges such as resource allocation and faculty involvement.

Keywords: Makerspaces; Hackerspaces; Fablabs; Academic Libraries; Students’ Learning; Creativity