Connecting STEM, PBL & Technology

This week's reading and video were wonderful in my opinion. The video was especially helpful what the SAMR model is. In my previous district we had a professional development sessions on SAMR, but most of us left the room scratching our heads and wanting to know more! I thought that the video provided an excellent understanding of what it is and how to apply it in the classroom. I also loved that they gave relatable examples of each of the attributes for SAMR: Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. I am a visual learner, so I can relate to exactly what each level looks like. I can take my understandings and relate them and how to apply the SAMR model in my own first grade classroom.

Project Based Learning and technology are both very relatable to the SAMR model in my opinion, because they all work together in harmony. SAMR can easily be aligned with a PBL activity because the top two levels of SAMR are in fact project based learning or encompass most of a PBL activity. If you really think of it, designing an authentic PBL would incorporate all levels of SAMR from the design to the execution.

I feel that the SAMR model provides an excellent platform for PBL, as well as incorporating the rigor and relevance into activities that are at times mundane and not engaging. In a model teaching world, technology, PBL and SAMR are all the pieces of a perfect triangle. Each is equal and carries important value when assessing and understanding how to dig deeper and connect with the demands of teaching and learning today.

References :

Common Sense Media. (n.d.). Introduction to the SAMR model. Retrieved February 19, 2017, retrieved from https://www.commonsensemedia.org/videos/introduction-to-the-samr-model

Gorman, M. (2014, September 15). Essential connections of STEM, PBL, and tech integration… What would Dewey think? Retrieved February 19, 2017, from https://21centuryedtech.wordpress.com/2014/09/15/essential-connections-of-stem-pbl-and-tech-integration-what-would-dewey-think/