With the introduction of iPads and Chromebooks into the classroom, and the classification of our students as “digital natives” our roles as educators and our pedagogical approaches are changing. No longer are teachers the sole source of knowledge in the classroom. Their role has shifted to that of a leader, motivator and facilitator of learning and knowledge. Devices in the classroom have allowed teachers to adopt more personalized learning models of classroom instruction such as blended learning, flipped classroom, and project based learning. In addition our students were born into a generation that has never lived without a computer, and they have instant access to information. Students want to solve real world problems and engage in lessons that have real world application.They can access information in a matter of seconds, tune into countless social channels, network with peers, and attempt to multitask. With these characteristics in mind and the devices in our classrooms it is up to us as educators to modify our instructional strategies to fit our students' needs.
With these tasks in mind, there are two models that can guide teachers through the process of planning meaningful and engaging lessons with technology. The TPACK model which stands for technological pedagogical content knowledge and the SAMR model which stands for substitution, augmentation, modification, and redefinition.
The TPACK Model
The TPACK model is often depicted as a Venn diagram with content, pedagogy, and technology forming the overlapping three circles.
Before the shift to 1:1 devices in the classroom content and pedagogy were considered the best ways of teaching because of the mix of content knowledge and strategy. In fact pedagogical content knowledge, the intersection of pedagogy and content, refers to the knowledge to use concepts and skills for engaging students effectively, which helps students to achieve their learning objectives. This is extremely important because pedagogical content knowledge will always be the foundation of your lessons.
Now more than ever, technology is becoming more combined with content and pedagogy, especially with the rise of social media and personal computers.This has created a new combination of knowledge that teachers must adopt called technological pedagogical content knowledge, the center of the diagram. TPACK represents a deep knowledge on how to use technology tools to teach concepts to students in a way that engages, enhances, and supports student learning outcomes.
It is not the technology tools that drives the learning, but it is the teachers knowledge of their content area, knowledge of instructional strategies, and knowledge of digital technology tools combined.This model is important because it can help teachers to understand the role that technology plays in their classrooms. It also helps dispel the myth that simply using an iPads or a Chromebook in class will enhance student learning. Having a student use a device without a purpose is not an effective use of technology for education. Rather it is the carefully thought out blending of all three knowledge areas that will enhance student learning outcomes.
The SAMR Model
Another model that is helpful for teachers when lesson planning is the SAMR model. The SAMR model is often depicted in a ladder showing different levels of technology integration in the classroom. Each level explains what the technology tool is doing in the lesson and helps teachers to conceptualize its purpose.The top two levels of the ladder show technology use as transforming the lesson while the bottom two show technology use as enhancing the lesson. The SAMR model was designed to incorporate technology into all disciplines and subjects by creating a common language. For example, many teachers use visualization to teach complex concepts to students.
SAMR is a great model to use because it can help teachers implement technology effectively and thoughtfully no matter how much or how little teachers know about technology.
If you feel like you are just starting out using technology or if you want to use it and are not sure how, start making small changes with the lower levels.Technology integration can be as simple as substituting a pencil and paper for a google document, or augmenting the lesson by inserting links to websites or videos in that google doc. As long is their is a learning objective in mind first before the technology is added. With SAMR it is possible for beginners to think about their own technology use and implement small meaningful changes.
SAMR is also great for more experienced teachers who may be looking to reach higher levels of tech integration. For example google docs can be modified to share with other students for a collaborative learning experience, or redefined to become a multimedia information page! No matter what your experience level, using the SAMR model will help you to create engaging learning experiences for their students.
How to use TPACK and SAMR when lesson planning
Here are a few questions to help you get started when it finally comes time to sit down and write those lesson plans.
Use the TPACK model to think about how each dimension is represented in your lesson plan. Are all three there? Or could it be lacking in one?
What standards are you trying to address? It is important to know what your content and learning objectives are and then find the best instructional strategy to help your students learn and show what they know.
Lastly consider which technology tool is the best tool to layer on top of your content and pedagogy.
Use the SAMR model to critically think about how the technology piece is enhancing or transforming your lesson and how that will affect your students learning. Second, think about where in your lesson it would be best to incorporate that technology piece.
Remember not all lessons will require the use of technology for students to achieve the learning outcomes.Technology can enhance learning in many areas but it might not be appropriate for all lessons.This is where you as teachers can use your expertise and evaluate what is necessary for your specific lessons and students needs. As always reach out to your instructional technology coach for guidance and assistance!
We want to know what you think!?
Answer one or a few questions in the comments and get the conversation going!
Have you heard of these two models before? Which one stuck out to you and why?
What are some ways that you integrate technology into your lessons?
Have you ever used a lesson with blended learning, flipped classroom, or project based learning? Tell us what you did and how your students responded to it.
Have you heard of the term “digital natives?” Do you think with some students being tech savvy, it changes the way you have been teaching?
References:
https://www.schoology.com/blog/tpack-framework-explained
https://www.commonsense.org/education/videos/introduction-to-the-tpack-mode
https://www.schoology.com/blog/samr-model-practical-guide-edtech-integration
