HW13.3 Reading Response

I was fascinated to learn about A.C. Gilbert and his dedication to his Erector Sets.  The way he invented so many types of maker sets and even created his own magazine to publicize the value of making and tinkering is incredible.  I think that his work led to the proliferation of hands-on, experiential activities for children, but it was also clearly motivated by financial gain.  As a salesman, Gilbert's main goal was to sell and although his products were actually great, he used lies and hyperbole to sell them.  The economics of maker sets is still an issue today as many companies sell pre-packaged kits that result in a product, but do not extend far beyond that, unless you buy another kit.

I also found it interesting that the introduction of "physical computing with Arduino and other microcontrollers, low-cost 3D printers and cutters, and programming" have had such an influence on the making revolution.  I am especially interested in the implications of accessible 3D printers because I think that they may be the answer to the limited scope of maker kits.  Although maker kits only really allow you to create one project, the use of 3D printers would allow you to reuse the components of a maker kit in new ways.  Once you are exposed to the technology included in the maker kit, you will inevitably have your own ideas for its other uses.  3D printers will allow you to design and create materials that can make your ideas a reality.