Artifacts from the One-Room Schoolhouse Tex-Kit
Over the years, the UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC) “Tex-Kits” has offered educators a unique way to bring the essence of a museum to life in the classroom. These “portable exhibits” provide thoughtfully curated, hands-on lessons that complement the curriculum and make learning interactive and memorable.
The ITC Education Department is actively developing a new generation of Tex-Kits designed to meet the needs of today’s learners. These upcoming kits will integrate objects, primary documents, and interview transcripts with innovative digital content to create immersive learning experiences. By leveraging modern technology, the new kits aim to deepen student engagement and make history both relevant and relatable.
Teaching with objects inspires curiosity, encourages critical thinking, and forges meaningful connections to the past. Hands-on learning helps students develop essential skills such as observation, inquiry, and visual literacy while fostering an appreciation for Texas’ rich cultural heritage.
The next wave of Tex-Kits will feature comprehensive guides and adaptable activity sheets to align with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards and support interdisciplinary learning. Topics currently in development include foodways, fashion, music, and fibers. These new offerings are being thoughtfully crafted to inspire educators and students alike, continuing the legacy of enriching learning through history.
Tex-Kits have proven their versatility beyond classrooms, resonating with homeschool groups, scout troops, senior communities, and private events. The refreshed kits, anticipated to launch for the fall 2025 school semester, promise to expand this impact further by bringing history to life for learners of all ages.
Free Outreach Program: While we work on updating our Tex-Kit offerings, ITC educators are available to visit your classroom or community group free of charge. They’ll bring a selection of objects to spark curiosity and foster connections to Texas history and culture. Contact the UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures today at itceducation@utsa.edu to schedule a hands-on learning experience tailored to your needs.