Describe - What Happened?
Using the affordances of digital technologies has been a major focus for my teaching practice over the past 4 years and continues to be a focuss. In my new role as assistant principal I have to essentially start from scratch in terms of growing knowledge of effective pedagogy that is supported by the affordances of digital technologies. The classrooms are all 1:1, all teachers are using sites to deliver the curriculum and to promote visible teaching and learning.
However there is room for improvement and an opportunity to look at the SAMR model in depth would be helpful for the team.
Feelings - What were you thinking about?
We have an outstanding platform to work off. The children expect a digital curriculum. The teachers are all enthusiastic about working in a digital classroom, and we are resourced to improve and grow teachers understanding of delivering Learn, Create, Share. So I am happy with where we are and have a clear idea where we need to head.
Evaluation - What was good and bad about the experience?
In most cases the children are engaged and the teachers are enthusiastic. It’s about keeping the momentum going in the right direction. By looking at the SAMR model and unpacking what that looks like in each teachers context will help them grow professional. It will enable them to reflect on their own practice and question whether or not they are using the affordances of digital technologies effectively
Analysis - What sense can you make of the situation?
Our school hasn’t just gone down the road of; ‘that simply introducing new ICT tools and infrastructure into schools will trigger beneficial and meaningful educational change’. We have implemented these four strategies to support educational ICT developments: providing enabling tools and infrastructure; providing inspiring ideas and opportunities to connect ideas; enhancing capability; and supporting innovation.
A chromebook isn’t the silver bullet to solve all problems, its the pedagogy that is supported by the technology that has the greatest impact on student achievement.
Conclusion - What else could have you done?
Although I think I have a good idea about how technology is being used in the classroom, I need to dig a little deeper. By knowing and understanding what each individual teacher is doing in terms of using the affordances of digital technologies to support Learn, Create, Share, I will have a better ability to provide support in key areas and grow leadership within the team to support others.
Action Plan - If it arose again what would you do?
Is there effective use of digital technologies in the Year 7 & 8 team? Yes absolutely, but it could be better. I am really keen to unpack the SAMR model with the team and get them to reflect on their teaching practice when teaching in a digital curriculum.
Kia Ora Simon,
ReplyDeleteUsing SAMAR is a great idea and TPAK was the other model which seemed to be favoured by some in class who had used it. I agree with you that giving students a “chrome book” is never the silver bullet for inspiring technological advancement in its entirety, and I worry for schools implementing this approach without the teacher support and pedagogy to develop the mindsets or meaningful educational change to teach in this environment. Good luck with digging deeper to ensure you have your finger on the pulse!
Nga mihi
Carol
Hi
ReplyDeleteI have also used the SAMR model to help guide me with my teaching practice. I Have definitely moved from substitution. I do agree that when we started introducing digital technology in the classroom we are all excited but keeping it going will be the challenge.