The term refers to an open high-tech workshop in which a wide variety of objects, sensors or machines can be manufactured by computer-controlled machines. This counter-trend to traditional consumerism is also known as the Maker Movement. For maker activities, FabLabs worldwide provide a variety of digital as well as conventional tools: in the workshops, printing, cutting and crafting is done with 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC milling machines (Fig. 1) and cutting plotters – but also with drills, soldering irons and sewing machines. FabLabs aim to give people free access to industrial production knowledge and production technology. And not only in industrialized nations, but also in developing and emerging countries. In this way, FabLabs make a contribution worldwide to increasing educational equity.
Making is the new digital do-it-yourself (DIY), so to speak. As a didactic concept, it focuses on the development of team skills and solution-oriented project work as well as on the development of interdisciplinary strategies of learning by publishing and discussing the projects in relevant expert forums via the Internet. This approach not only awakens interest in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (so-called STEM subjects) and builds competencies, but also specifically promotes inventiveness and innovation development (Fig. 2).
Fig. 1: Operation of the CNC portal milling machine at the Green FabLab 
Fig. 2: Demonstration of the laser cutting device for primary school children