How Hands-On Learning Levels the Playing Field in STEAM Education.
"One of the things I think is forgotten with coding, and why I like Strawbees so much, is the physical computing side and the designing side of the computing."
Science Teacher, California, US
Brian Jones, a science teacher in California, faced the challenge of teaching STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) subjects to a uniquely diverse classroom. His students included those in the Resource Specialist Program (RSP), Special Education (mainstreamed), and advanced learners, all with varying needs, abilities, and learning styles.
Finding a teaching approach that engaged every student equally and fostered collaboration was a priority. When Brian introduced Strawbees, a hands-on prototyping tool, it not only transformed his classroom but also empowered his students to work together and excel in ways he hadn’t seen before.
Brian incorporated Strawbees into a STEAM lesson about wind energy, using it to teach students how wind turbines work. Rather than relying on lectures or traditional worksheets, he challenged his students to build and prototype their own wind turbines using Strawbees kits. The flexibility of the tool allowed each student to approach the project at their own pace and in their own way, encouraging independent problem-solving and creativity.
By providing an open-ended platform for exploration, Strawbees created a natural environment for students of all abilities to collaborate. Advanced students were able to test complex designs, while RSP and Special Education students could focus on grasping foundational concepts by engaging with the tactile, hands-on elements of the activity. This leveled the playing field, enabling all students to contribute meaningfully to the project.
The breakthrough moment for Brian came when a student with low self-esteem - who had previously struggled in his classes had a surprising success. During the wind turbine project, this student was the first to observe and articulate a key scientific concept: the relationship between the shape and length of a turbine blade and its effect on velocity. “He started using the vocabulary before everybody else and was really connected,” Brian shared. “When he shared this with the class, he was very proud of that moment. It was very cool.”
Strawbees gave students of all levels the tools to succeed. Advanced students delved into complex designs, while RSP and Special Education students gained confidence by mastering fundamental concepts. Everyone had a role, which created a sense of inclusion and collaboration.
For the student with low self-esteem, succeeding in the Strawbees project marked a turning point. Not only did he understand the scientific principles being taught, but he also had the opportunity to share his insights with his peers. This moment of success helped boost his confidence and change his self-perception.
Through hands-on exploration, students naturally began using scientific vocabulary to explain their ideas. The pride and excitement they felt about their creations motivated them to articulate concepts in their own words, reinforcing both their understanding and their communication skills.
By leveling the learning field, Strawbees encouraged collaboration. Students worked together, sharing ideas and building on each other’s designs, building on teamwork and mutual respect among classmates with diverse abilities.
For teachers like Brian, who face the challenge of meeting the needs of a diverse classroom, Strawbees offers a solution that aligns with STEAM education goals while enhancing critical thinking, creativity, and confidence. Students not only gain a deeper understanding of scientific concepts but also build essential skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving.
"He started using the vocabulary before everybody else and was really connected (when building with Strawbees). When he shared this with the class, he was very proud of that moment. It was very cool."
Science Teacher, California, US
Would you like a Strawbees representative to reach out to you with more information regarding school district purchases? We can help you find the most suited engineering and robotics solution to make more ‘aha’ STEM or STEAM moments for your teachers and students possible!
