In my previous post, I wrote about how LEGO could be seen as a tool for thinking. I shall follow up in this post by sharing more on the ways that LEGO as a tool for thinking can potentially make this a world a better one.
Everyone can make something
The LEGO System in many ways can contribute to a vibrant maker culture. As a modular based construction toy, building with LEGO should not too difficult for most people. The act of building LEGO provides for a shift in identity from being a consumer to a creator. Such shifts contributes to people taking charge for their own creative ideas and increased engagement with the world around them. Such a shift in paradigm contributes to more productive working and personal spaces.
Remaking and Rebuilding
With LEGO, anything can be built and be taken apart in a matter of minutes. This allows for builders to explore ways in which a model can be built and changing them as needed. In a way, LEGO building not only fosters familiarity with creating new things, the LEGO system also allows for things to constructed in a different way using the same amount of resources or adding new resource. Such versatility contributes to optimistic approach to change.
Support and sharing
Gone were the days where LEGO builders build in silos. Thanks to the the internet, these days you can find builders and enthusiasts uploading their creations on to social networks – extensive networks of users who are keen to learn and to exchange knowledge and inspiration. Through open sharing and collaborative practices, the online LEGO community paves the way for socially valuable design and innovations that the world truly needs.
References
Gauntlett, David (2015), ‘The LEGO System as a tool for thinking, creativity, and changing the world’, in Making Media Studies: The Creativity Turn in Media and Communications Studies, New York: Peter Lang. Available at:
http://davidgauntlett.com/complete-list-of-publications/