In this post, I will discuss how Bloom’s taxonomy and Dr. Ruben Puentedura’s SAMR model can assist teachers in developing engaging classroom activities for students.

Last term, my inquiry class received a visit from one of our program’s technology specialists, who introduced us to a few effective ways to integrate digital media and new technologies into classroom learning. Some of the technologies we experimented with were Padlet, stop-motion, and green screens. While it was interesting to interact with these technologies ourselves and experiences their practical application to learning, the greatest takeaway for me was the ensuing discussion on the SAMR model (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition), which can be used to help teachers to meaningfully incorporate technologies into their lesson planning. The model focuses on two categories: enhancement and transformation. Substitution and augmentation fall under the enhancement category, whereas modification and redefinition fall under transformation. Allow me to use the example of writing an essay to illustrate how the SAMR model is used. An example of substitution would be having students write out their paper on the computer – software replaces pen and paper. An example of augmentation would be utilizing text-to-speech technologies to change the functionality of the software – this would not be achievable using pen and paper alone. Posting the finished draft of the essay on a blog, where peers could provide constructive feedback, would be an example of modification. Finally, redefinition would be encouraging students to express their written ability through the use of various multimedia. An excellent example of this technology-in-action can be found in BC school district 60’s Wireless Writing Program http://www.prn.bc.ca/projects/wwp/. This program uses tablet technology to teach students about writing, acknowledging the act of writing as more than penmanship, but rather the communication of thoughts and ideas. In summary, the SAMR model is a tool for thoughtful teachers to use when checking to ensure their learning outcomes are reflected in the technology-centred activities they have planned. SAMR also keeps teachers honest with their planning, as they have to consider that various needs of their students at all times.

Bloom’s taxonomy is a model that helps teachers to plan learning activities that require a higher-order level of thinking and/or skill level. Bloom’s focuses on six higher-order skills: creativity, evaluation, analysis, application, understanding, and memory. Coupled with the SAMR model, Bloom’s will keep teachers honest about lesson planning and how they incorporate technologies into the class. As I mentioned in my last post, I will be exploring gaming and virtual reality technologies in my classrooms and research throughout practicum. I am excited to use these tools to keep me honest as both an academic and professional.

Next steps: I spent most of yesterday looking at different virtual reality apps that could be educational for my practicum students. I discovered that YouTube has been exploring with history through VR https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iDfsGX5pCHk and mobile app developers have created a VR flight experience called FK 23 Bantam, compatible with Google Cardboard. My goals for this week and throughout my practicum experiences are to find more resources I could potentially use in my classes.

Until next time,
Alex M.