3.1 where in technology are we?- the TPACK and SAMR models

As an instructor understanding how to effectively incorporate all the three domains in the TPACK Model i.e. Technology, Pedagogy and Content  will make sure that my trainees get most of their lessons.

Through theTPACK presentation and working with provided matrices, i have discovered how the TPACK Framework supports 21st century classrooms by focusing on the Core, good learning theory, and carefully selected technology. This framework provides a strong learning experience for all students.

I have learnt that I have to perform the following functions for the learning to be successful

1. Choose learning goals

2. Make practical pedagogical decisions about the nature of the learning experience

3. Select and sequence appropriate activity types

4. Select formative and summative assessment strategies

 5. Select tools and resources that will best help students to benefit from the learning experience being planned.

The TPACK Model is directly translated to make a combination of content, activities and tools to support the learning,  at the end trainees select the best web tool suited for the content they will be presenting and sharing.

I have realized that there is a relationship with the blooms taxonomy levels that we studied at our teacher training college with the TPACK model. Simply because there is a way how the content has to be structured into easy to understand pedagogical approach, even using the web tools at remember level through application level up to  where the trainees are expected to be “creators of things”

A quick look at the relevancy of web tools in the lens of a trainee

It is quite challenging because of low internet connection and availability of few computers however, this has enlighten me more about the need to use the tools and how much relevant they are to the trainees in this era.

Simply being able to use technology is not enough; it is of paramount importance to the teacher and the learner to cross examine how it will be integrated and at what level?

The SAMR (SUBSTITUTION,AUGMENTATION, MODIFICATION,REDEFINITION)  model is very interesting it has taught me how to interpret use of technology at different situations. Earlier I thought power point presentation was technology but it typically a substitution of a situation and has nothing to do with content so I have to change to make sure that all the pedagogy used is aiming at enhancing retention and recall of the concepts by the learners so that they reach the level of creating more concepts, judgments and presenting findings by their own.

I have learnt how to read and apply the SAMR model.

I Hope to learn a lot with practice

Gilbert Niwamanya

Instructor-Nakawa Vocational Training Institute Uganda