How can the SAMR theory of technology adoption help you evaluate technologies that you might consider using in your classroom?

“SAMR model” by souvenirsofcanada is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

The SAMR model can be used by teachers as a tool to assess and evaluate when and how technology is incorporated into the classroom and into instruction. Some technologies simply replace traditional tools while others enable experiences which would not be possible without it; dramatically augmenting the learning experience.

Examples:

Substitution: digital overhead projector to replace acetate overhead projector. The information is delivered and received in virtually the same way.

Augmentation: A word processing program with the ability to edit formatting and check spelling/ grammar improves the product over hand written text if revisions are necessary and allows for much cleaner editing without recopying.

Modification: Having a guest speaker join the class remotely modifies instruction allowing for an experience which otherwise would not be possible; however, without pre-planned materials/ questions for the class to engage with so as to increase the amount of student/ speaker interaction this technology modifies but doesn’t substantially alter or redefine instruction.

Redefinition: Connecting online with a class on the other side of the world to do a collaborative project redefines and enriches the learning experience dramatically thus redefining instruction.

How could the SECTIONS model help you select the most appropriate tool or technology to help meet your learning objectives for your class?

https://onlineacademiccommunity.uvic.ca/learnteachtech/2017/09/18/choosing-the-right-technologies/

All of these factors should be taken into consideration when considering implementing new technology in the classroom so that learning is augmented and not perceived as creating a more challenging learning environment for some or all involved. The tech need to be age appropriate and accessible both at home and at school if necessary and reflect the approval of the school district. It should be easy to use, reliable and facilitate the learning outcomes while not detracting from teaching time. Make it clear how students can benefit from using the tech to network and connect to external learning opportunities. Finally, the tech needs to follow security and privacy policies set out by the school district so as to protect staff and students.

Could sketchnoting benefit learners in the grade level you hope to teach at? If so how? Absolutely! Grade 4s and 5s are beginning to have to take more individual notes from textbooks etc. so need to learn and practice higher level processing skills of summarizing and consolidating information. Sketchnoting is a fun way to practice summarizing, prioritizing information and making connections between information in a way that improves memory of the material. Students engage in active thinking while Sketchnoting and are shown to retain more than when copying word for word. The cognitive load theory supports that summarizing helps info get stored in long-term memory rather than overloading the working memory thus increasing retention overall.

Here are some of my sketch notes for you to admire… Ooohhh… AAAhhhh….

I also got to play around in Canva and learn some pretty cool stuff. This will definitely help me make bookmarks, infographics, and posters that are much nicer in future.