What is Direct Instruction

Columbia Gadget Works is a small, community-based makerspace located in the town of Columbia, Missouri. Gadget Works began, and is still working under, a club model with a flat management structure and around 15 paying members. The space is located in one of the few industrial zoned areas of Columbia, and the building that houses the makerspace is owned by one of the members. Columbia Gadget works has been around since 2009 in various forms and met at members' houses and rented a space before settling into their current building. The onus of learning and forming communities is on members. However, in an attempt to develop a sense of community, the space offers open nights for members and non-members and has undertaken larger projects that require a substantial participation from members. The space struggles and at the same time is accepting of its slow growth and lack of equipment, for now. This chapter explores Columbia Gadget Works.