What is it?
Adapted making and building tools provide alternative ways for learners to design, construct, assemble, and create during STEM and maker activities. Adaptations may include easy-grip or lightweight tools, stabilized materials, clamps and jigs, adapted scissors, switch-accessible tools, alternative handles, accessible construction materials, or digital fabrication tools such as 3D printers and cutting machines.
How to use it?
Consider the actions required in a making activity, such as holding, cutting, connecting, measuring, fastening, drawing, or activating a tool, and identify alternative ways to accomplish them when needed. Stabilize materials, modify handles, reposition tools, provide alternative access methods, or select construction systems that match the learner's motor and sensory access. Whenever possible, adapt the tools or process so the learner can make meaningful design and construction decisions rather than assigning those actions to a peer or adult.
Why use it?
Making and building provide opportunities to experiment, solve problems, revise ideas, and learn through direct interaction with materials. Physical access barriers can prevent learners from participating in these important parts of the design process even when they understand the concepts involved. Adapted tools support greater independence, agency, creativity, and authentic participation in collaborative STEM experiences.
