For the past two years, I have had the privilege to be associated with a school district that embraces Reuben Puentedura’s SAMR Model to frame conversations about the integration of technology into instruction. Some of the best learning about how to continue the digital transformation of classrooms occurs when we revisit the model. At a new teacher induction meeting recently, a colleague reminded us all of the model by showing a student-created video that clearly captures the intention and effective use of the SAMR model.
As I watched the video and listened to the rich conversation around the examples shared by teachers, I thought about how I could leverage the model as a way to approach the use of technology with my own sons. Having had multiple conversations with parents and friends about our children using technology and about providing opportunities that are positive and developmentally appropriate, I realized that thinking about and modeling my own use of technology just might help my sons consider the powerful ways they could use technology. It could also provide an open door for me to have conversations with my sons about leveraging technology. Conversations and working with my sons on their technology use have led to the following examples:
1) Helping my younger, football-obsessed son set up a spreadsheet to track NFL team wins and losses (Substitution)
2) Creating presentations for family events that included visuals and sounds (Augmentation)
3) Assisting with setting up a Prezi account for my son so he could work with other students to develop a presentation on the solar system (Modification)
Although I am not sure we have reached Redefinition just yet, we are well on our way to thinking about the ways we have leveraged technology to change the way we function as a family. Recently while away on a trip, I FaceTimed with my son so I could help him with some Algebra. We could problem solve the issues together, in real time, across the miles. It was great to think about the fact that we were creating a father-son PLN enhanced by the use of technology.
As you consider your own children’s use of technology, I can report that some of our best time together has been spent as my sons teach me what they are able to do with technology. Asking them “how did you do that?” even though I already may know the answer, has opened doors to showing them that we can learn together, and technology has certainly provided another avenue. As I think about continuing the conversation, I am inclined to ask them questions such as:
- What might be a way you could use technology to organize your school work?
- What would you like to create that you could share with someone else using technology?
- What is something you would like to do that would not be possible without technology?
What are some ways you have used technology with your own children that just might classify you as a SAMR Model parent?
Learn. Lead. Leverage 