Location and Timeframe
Last updated
Last updated
Choosing the right location and timeframe for your Makeathon is crucial to the success of your event. While it is entirely possible to host a Makeathon in the same classroom that students attend every day, taking them out to a new environment and connecting them with other students (including different age groups) that they don’t normally associate with gives the Makeathon a sense of occasion and novelty that encourages students to think differently.
Here are some factors to consider when selecting a location and timeframe:
Accessibility: Choose a location that is easily accessible to your target audience. This could be a local community centre, school, or university. Make sure the location is accessible by public transportation and has ample parking - and consider wheelchair users and others experiencing disability.
Space: Make sure the location has enough space to accommodate all participants and their equipment. You'll need enough space for workstations or tables for groups, tools, materials, and other equipment.
Amenities: Look for a location that has amenities such as bathrooms, power outlets, and Wi-Fi. These are essential for a successful Makeathon. For multi-day events, having a separate area for students to work quietly, away from the noise of multiple groups all speaking together, can be extremely helpful. A separate area for meals and breaks is also a good idea.
Cost: Consider the cost of the location. Make sure it fits within your budget and doesn't require too many of your resources. If you have access to your own premises, that makes a big difference - but often other organisations will be happy to provide space for an educational event for young people.
Timeframe: Choose a timeframe that works for your audience. Consider factors such as holidays, school breaks, and other events that may conflict with your Makeathon.
Duration: Consider the duration of your Makeathon. It's important to provide enough time for participants to work on their projects but not too much that it becomes exhausting. A typical timeframe for a Makeathon is between 1-3 days, though MTF Makeathons can range from 3 hours to an entire week.
Timing: Consider the time of day that your Makeathon will take place. Choose a time that works for your audience and allows for optimal productivity. Starting too early in the morning can be counterproductive, and so can going on for too long. Makeathons are fun, but they can be intense. Students’ minds are constantly engaged in ways that they might not be used to. Mental fatigue destroys creativity and productivity.
By considering these factors, you can choose a location and timeframe that is convenient and suitable for your Makeathon, making it more likely to be successful.
