From Theory to Practice with GPH: Methodology for Developing Maker Courses

  • Otávio Barbosa UFRN
  • Lisandry Azuaje UFRN
  • Alba Araújo UFRN
  • Vinicius Cruz UFRN
  • Samaherni Dias UFRN

Abstract


This article presents a methodology for developing courses that promote the teaching and dissemination of knowledge related to the maker culture, based on the research and extension activities of the Hardware Research Group (GPH) at UFRN. The methodology integrates material production, class application, and student evaluation, with the goal of creating a modularized course adaptable to different contexts and audiences. The courses cover basic concepts of electronics, programming, microcontrollers, 3D model design, printed circuit board (PCB) fabrication, and electronic component soldering. In addition to exploring the maker culture as a movement that promotes experimentation, innovation, and learning, highlighting the importance of technology and maker education. As a result, the application of C++, Arduino, and prototyping courses is achieved, with teaching materials, technical support, and practical projects.

References

Anderson, C. (2012). Makers: The New Industrial Revolution. Crown, New York.

Blikstein, P. (2018). Maker movement in education: History and prospects. In de Vries, M. J., editor, Handbook of Technology Education, pages 419–437. Springer.

Borri, S. (2021). From classroom to learning environment. In et al., D. S., editor, Makers at School, Educational Robotics and Innovative Learning Environments, volume 240 of Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems, page Especificar páginas se disponíveis. Springer.

Carvalho, A. B. G. P. d. (2024). Fablab e educação no brasil: as ações de disseminação da cultura maker na educação básica e no ensino superior. Texto Livre, 17:e52809.

Daniela, L. (2021). Pedagogical considerations for technology-enhanced learning. In et al., D. S., editor, Makers at School, Educational Robotics and Innovative Learning Environments, volume 240 of Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems, page Especificar páginas se disponíveis. Springer International Publishing.

J. Debowski, D. C. e Ryan, B. (2024). The value of a makerspace: cultural (re-)production and the making of a city. Journal of Urbanism: International Research on Placemaking and Urban Sustainability, 0(0):1–23.

Papavlasopoulou, S., Giannakos, M. N., e Jaccheri, L. (2017). Empirical studies on the maker movement, a promising approach to learning: A literature review. Entertainment Computing, 18:57–78.

Tabarés, R. e Boni, A. (2023). Maker culture and its potential for stem education. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 33(1):241–260.
Published
2025-07-20
BARBOSA, Otávio; AZUAJE, Lisandry; ARAÚJO, Alba; CRUZ, Vinicius; DIAS, Samaherni. From Theory to Practice with GPH: Methodology for Developing Maker Courses. In: PROCEEDINGS OF INNOVATION, DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATION, AND INCLUSION WORKSHOP WITH MAKER ACTIVITIES (IDEIA), 1. , 2025, Maceió/AL. Anais [...]. Porto Alegre: Sociedade Brasileira de Computação, 2025 . p. 39-48. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5753/ideia.2025.8191.