Starter Frameworks
The Bubbler at Madison Public Library’s Maker Framework
Grounded in research and practice into making & learning, the Bubbler’s maker framework is designed to identify the outcomes of hands-on making and arts based programs. Experience has shown it is broadly applicable to a broad age range from children old enough to verbalize ideas and intentions, to adults.
Unlike some more STEM based assessment tools, this framework focuses strongly on building community and making connections to each other or themselves - core values of Madison Public Library’s strategic goals and conducive to arts based practices of the Bubbler’s Artist in Residence Program.
Learn more about the Bubbler at Madison Public Library’s approach in their case studies.
Download Bubbler Maker Framework
Download Sample Observations using Bubbler Maker Framework
Madison Public Library’s True Play Framework
Built on the principles of Anji Play, love, joy, risk, engagement, and reflection, Madison Public Library’s True Play framework allows for more open ended observation. With very young children, it is easy for adults to make assumptions about their play - obviously, they are making a boat! - but when littles aren’t verbal enough to tell observers their plans, or when their attentions shift rapidly, it is more accurate to notice their process, careful observation of others, shifting engagement with materials, and emotions around their progress.
This framework allows open observation of behavior, while still organizing and tagging content to recognize outcomes and trends.
Download Sample Observations using Framework
Learn more about Madison’s True Play approach in their case study.
Skokie Public Library’s Educational Learning Spaces Framework
Skokie Public Library’s EL Framework is different from Madison & Waupaca’s in that is focuses on observations within a dedicated maker space. The Studio, Lab, and Boombox, are spaces that are always available for patrons to learn new skills, experiment with new technology, and develop confidence in self directed learning - priorities that are mirrored in their observational framework.
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Learn more about Skokie’s space based approach and connection to their strategic priorities in their case study.
Skokie Public Library’s General Programming Framework
Skokie also hosts a variety of programs outside of its dedicated spaces. This General Programming Framework is tweaked from their space based observations to connect outcomes of any program to their strategic goals.
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Learn more about Skokie’s program priorities in their case study.
Waupaca Public Library’s Youth STEAM Framework
Waupaca Public Library has an impressive track record of STEAM programming, and highly values creating opportunities for critical thinking, problem solving, and collaboration in their offerings to youth and families. More uniquely in their strategic priorities, is their emphasis on multi-age learning and opportunities for kids and caregivers to explore side by side. This includes learning about STEAM topics, but it also includes learning about each other and being amazed by their child or by their grown up.
Download Youth STEAM Framework
Download Sample Observations using Framework
Learn more about the Waupaca Public Library’s approach in their case study.