How Strawbees Creates Inclusive STEAM Experiences for Students of All Abilities.
"Straws can transform lives. It can be that simple. The tools that we bring in, we don't know how it's going to affect kids. But every kid finds their way through something that is common in straws."
Educational Consultant with LEARN, Quebec, Canada
Chris Colley, an educational consultant with LEARN in Quebec, Canada, works with students of all abilities to create engaging STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) learning experiences. In one memorable Grade 5 STEAM Day, Chris was introduced to a student who was autistic and nonverbal, a situation that presented both challenges and opportunities.
The student’s teacher had warned Chris that she rarely engaged with others or spoke, so Chris was unsure how involved she might be in the activities. However, through the use of Strawbees, this student not only participated but thrived, creating an extraordinary moment that inspired her peers and teachers alike.
For this particular STEAM Day, Chris brought Strawbees kits into the school along with design cards (Pocketful of Ideas Card Decks) to guide students in their building projects. Strawbees kits can be used as versatile prototyping tools that allow students to create structures and models, promoting hands-on exploration and problem-solving.
When the nonverbal student was introduced to the activity, she initially hesitated, unsure of where to begin. However, Chris noticed that she was drawn to the straws, possibly because they felt familiar and approachable. Recognizing this connection, he prompted her to "build a safe space." This suggestion resonated with her, particularly because she experienced anxiety and often sought spaces where she could feel secure.
The student quickly became immersed in the activity. Working independently and without interruption, she constructed a large dome - a safe, enclosed space that she could sit under. Chris gave her the room to explore her creativity without interference, which allowed her to enter a state of flow. Other students in the classroom soon took notice of her impressive work, gathering around her dome structure and asking questions. This was an unusual and inspiring moment, as it was the first time the student had received such positive attention from her peers.
The student’s ability to build a complex structure on her own gave her a sense of pride and accomplishment. It was the first time she had received admiration and respect from her peers for her work. The recognition she earned bolstered her confidence and allowed her to feel a sense of belonging in the classroom.
At the end of this STEAM Day, the student’s teacher was moved to tears, sharing with Chris that she had never seen the child so engaged, focused, and proud. For the teacher, it was a breakthrough moment that showcased the potential of hands-on learning tools like Strawbees to unlock hidden abilities in students.
The simplicity and flexibility of Strawbees made it accessible for students of all abilities. The tools lowered the anxiety of participating in a new activity by offering a straightforward way to start and the freedom to explore. This inclusivity encouraged the student to fully engage and provided an opportunity for her peers to celebrate diversity in abilities.
While the student worked independently to build her dome, her creation became a focal point for the class. Other students were inspired by her design and approached the build with curiosity, enhancing a sense of connection and mutual respect.
Chris’s story demonstrates how Strawbees empowers students of all abilities to thrive in STEAM education. By offering simple, adaptable tools and open-ended prompts, Strawbees allows children to work at their own pace, reducing anxiety and promoting creativity.
For students with unique needs, such as autism or nonverbal communication, the tactile and visual nature of Strawbees can unlock their potential and give them a voice in the classroom.
This experience highlights the importance of creating inclusive STEAM opportunities that engage every student, regardless of their ability or background. Strawbees not only develops critical thinking, creativity, and confidence, but it also helps students develop social-emotional skills like collaboration and communication.
For educators, Chris’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact that hands-on learning tools can have on students. As Chris aptly put it, “Straws can transform lives. It can be that simple.”
"Straws can transform lives. It can be that simple."
Educational Consultant with LEARN, Quebec, Canada
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!
