Monday, January 25, 2016

TPACK is Cool, But SAMR Rules!!

Tpack ( technological pedagogical content knowledge )  and SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition) is a framework that guides a teacher though his or her use of technology in the classroom. 

The SAMR model is very short and simple. It tells you exactly what to do and how to use the technology in the classroom. Below is a chart that goes into specific details on each level of SAMR.
(Techtipsedu.blogspot.com)
This model increases its usage ith each step. There are many many different ways that the SAMR models improve normal "old school" teaching practices to engage the students in each and every lesson. Below is a list of classroom practices and how they can be improved using SAMR. I really like that the SAMR model is so spelled out and straight forward. 

(www.schrockguide.net)
Next we have the TPACK model. Now this is a really great model because it looks at the whole picture. It covers everything from content to pedagogy. Now my when I first started reading this model I could not really follow it because I honestly did not know what the words meant. So if you are anything like me, take a look at the picture below for a better understanding.
(www.coetail.com)
Now, this pictures shows us that TPACK wants to not only focus on content or only focus on technolgy, but a very balanced mixture of content, teaching practices, and technology. This model gives us a way to enhance the places we may already be strong in while building a strong foundation for these areas we are completely weak in. This is a good model for beginning teacher who may or may not already know their strengths and weaknesses. They have the privilege of focusing on all 3 sections.

As stated, I do prefer the SAMR model. I'm generally pretty strong in my content, teaching practices, and what technologies to use. However, I struggled with adapting the technology. How can I use this piece of technology to teach my students to understand math and not just regurgitate math rules? SAMR shows me how to do that!

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