Technology Integration is a tough topic, until it is further explored. I believe this class has really opened my eyes to so much more in the reality of integration. I had already started exploring the SAMR model this past year in my job as Technology Director, but now I see it in such a bigger view. We often look at the substitution method of SAMR and think "Wow, I've done something great and innovative." When digging deeper, I have personally found that this is really only scratching the surface to Technology Integration. Substitution should be the springboard into bigger change for our students, don't be satisfied at this level.
Having never been a classroom teacher, this class took me outside of my technology box and comfort zone. I also feel it has helped me to be able to identify more with the challenges that my peer teachers face in the classroom. I'm often an advocate of "Don't worry, technology is not a one size fits all, what works for them might not work for you". Now to go back to school and challenge my teachers to keep reaching for what does work for them, and to not be side-lined by one failure.
I hope through our use of a SAMR based audit, my teachers will be able to look at the answers they are giving and reflect on the change they are making, and how they could change to the next level of SAMR instead of staying in a comfortable position.
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." -Nelson Mandela
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