The integration of PBL and technology in the classroom allows students to learn through higher order thinking skills while being highly engaged in their learning. The SAMR model encourages teachers to not only use technology in the classroom, but truly utilize the tools within the technology to transform student learning (Common Sense Media, n.d.). The SAMR model has 4 levels: substitution, augmentation, modification and redefinition (Common Sense Media, n.d.). About five years ago, when I got my first five iPads for my second grade classroom, I really used the iPads to substitute instruction. For example, instead of doing our paper version of math fact fluency practice, the students would use the iPads to play some sort of math fact game. It was a start, but at the time, I didn't know enough to use them any differently. Over time, I was able to use technology to augment instruction by using Google Docs and Slides to type stories and Pic Collage to create informational posters. Then, students began collaborating with one another through Google Docs and Seesaw as the iPads began to modify learning. Eventually, the integration of technology redefined learning in my classroom by using publishing tools such as iMovie, Scratch Jr, Puppet Pals, and more to share work outside of the classroom. The PBL process is not a quick one. Throughout the process, students will likely be utilizing all four levels of the SAMR model. For example, they may use a device to conduct research (substitution), use Google Docs, drawing tools or collage apps to type or create posters (augmentation), blog or collaborate with group members through Kidblog, Seesaw, Google Docs, etc (modification), and create multi-media projects to share their knowledge and/or take action with their classmates, family, community, and possibly even world-wide through social media outlets (redefinition). One of the most beneficial advantages of using technology alongside PBL, in my opinion, is that there are an infinite amount of tools and resources available to students to use throughout the PBL process. This allows students choice in how they will record, publish, produce and share their work. "(PBL) allows students to own their learning while promoting the inquiry of science, resourcefulness of technology, design principles found in engineering, and application of math" (21centuryedtech, 2014). Teachers who are new to both technology integration and PBL in the classroom will eventually have to jump in and start somewhere. It's important to remember that neither will be perfect the first time through (or the second or third time for that matter!) However, much like we expect our students to grow and transform through the PBL process, teachers will also grow and transform while incorporating higher level thinking skills and higher steps on the SAMR model ladder. I can't imagine in this day in age, not integrating technology into the PBL process in one way or another. The more experience teachers and students have with technology and PBL, the more success teachers and students will have! Resources 21centuryedtech, Essential Connections of STEM, PBL, and Technology Integration… What Would Dewey Think?, Michael Gorman,, September 15, 2014 https://21centuryedtech.wordpress.com/2014/09/15/essential-connections-of-stem-pbl-and-tech-integration-what-would-dewey-think/ Common Sense Media, Introduction to SAMR https://www.commonsensemedia.org/videos/introduction-to-the-samr-model
1 Comment
Bill Dolton
6/5/2017 06:23:41 pm
Great job with your analysis! The SAMR Model is a great tool for helping teachers consider how technology is being used in the classroom and strive to move up the ladder toward transformation.
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