Lindsey Fowler at Stephenville’s Hook Elementary School received a teacher grant from Stephenville Education Foundation for a Blended Learning model. The grant was requested with the purpose that 42 students would have access to personalized instruction on the iPad, small group rotations, and classroom instruction. Blended learning allows students to access e-learning material and experiences while fostering the experience with teacher guidance and facilitation. This project utilizes hands-on materials and digital tools to enhance the use of our learning devices.

Fowler set objectives for the blended learning prior to putting it into practice. Lindsey stated, “I will incorporate STEM activities in my small groups and stations to encourage teamwork, problem-solving, experimentation, technology use, and stamina. STEM activities foster creativity and ingenuity that will lead students to new ideas and innovations.” Educator Fowler also planned to utilize student devices by using applications, programs, and tools such as the Logitech Crayon. She envisioned her classroom to have a variety of stations. Students would utilize the STEM station with gears, legos, blocks, and other materials to invoke creativity and problem-solving skills. They also have iPads, headphones, and the Logitech Crayons to complete activities on the iPad.

The objectives for the project were measured by doing STEM activities that go along with what Fowler was teaching. Students also use the STEM cart to be creative thinkers and problem-solvers. The Logitech crayons are great for students doing anything on the iPad, such as SeeSaw activities and IXL.

Fowler met the set goals and objectives for the blended learning project with her fourth graders. Lindsey shares, “It was my goal to make sure my students were getting to use STEM activities during class time. They enjoy getting to problem-solve, create, and be innovative.” Students had to create a model for area and perimeter using legos that came in the STEM cart. They also used the wiki sticks to create 3d figures. The classroom uses the Logitech Crayons to complete activities and to write feedback and grade assignments on the iPad. Fowler also adds that the headphones are great. Students use them when doing independent lessons such as Stemscopes for science, Reflex Math, and SeeSaw activities. Students who receive modifications such as having their test read aloud to them use the headphones for their accommodations.

The fourth grade class at Hook Elementary was very grateful for the grant Stephenville Education Foundation provided. Fowler expresses, “The STEM cart is amazing. There is nothing negative about it. My students are becoming more innovative because they can create and do hands-on activities in my class. The headphones are very useful as well. I am happy with the results of this grant. I appreciate it so much.”

The Stephenville Education Foundation’s goal is to encourage all students to work to their highest potential through an innovative curriculum. Consider getting involved and making a difference in Stephenville ISD. Large or small, every dollar matters because every student matters. Together, let’s make education take flight!