Understanding an emerging maker community in India: Socio-demographic traits, motivations, and satisfaction factors

Abstract

Makerspaces are becoming increasingly popular due to their capacity for hands-on learning, innovation, collaboration, and the democratisation of technology. While numerous studies have explored makerspace users, they have largely focused on contexts within the Global North or China, leaving a significant gap in understanding the demographics and experiences of individuals who frequent these spaces in the Global South. The paper addresses this gap by understanding the factors influencing the motivations and satisfaction levels of an emerging community of makerspace users in India. Employing a cross-sectional survey methodology, data from 51 participants were collected via an online questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and multivariate linear regression. Key findings indicate that access to specialised tools, expert guidance, and opportunities for personal and professional development are significant motivators for makerspace usage. Users expressed high satisfaction with the learning opportunities and resources provided. The study concludes that makerspaces play a crucial role in supporting innovation and professional growth in the Indian context, suggesting that policymakers and educators should consider these insights to enhance the effectiveness and reach of makerspaces, thus promoting broader innovation ecosystems. Future research should aim to include a more diverse participant pool to validate and expand upon these findings.