I finally had a few moments to finish up the SAMR “Flash PD” that was next on my list. It took me longer to figure out an idea to visually represent this model. I knew I wanted to use Playdoh® because I feel that the SAMR Model shows how technology can be molded to fit our needs. Also, it brings forth the idea that we can either be rigid or malleable in our use of technology. So, we are really looking at the flexibility of technology and the flexibility of our own ideas through this lens. The concept of transforming student learning also brought the Playdoh® straight to my mind. Once I had the idea…and found the Playdoh® (seriously, I had to order it), it was a quick creation because my ideas were focused and I had time to process the big picture and details before I ever set the camera up. I’m looking forward to my next “Flash PD”- maybe Transliteracy?
Specific Tools Used:
iPhone (photo capture)
Tripod, yard stick, and masking tape (now my go-to set up to get my overhead shot)
A paint stick to make my “Redefnition” tennis ball look like it was bouncing
Playdoh®
Pixlr (to edit my photos and look like the Playdoh® was really in different places)
Screenshots of Google Docs
PowerPoint (recreated version of the SAMR Model to use for PD)
Two years ago, I gave a presentation on QR Codes and Augmented Reality in the classroom as a part of my experience with the MAET program at Michigan State University. As mobile devices are becoming more prevalent in schools, QR Codes have gotten so much more buzz. So, it was fun to dig into my files and see what I was thinking about then!
On May 3rd, I had the privilege to present at Tech & Learning‘s Tech Forum in Chicago. Along with six other colleagues, we each discussed how technology can help us reach the CCSS through creativity and collaboration. This was an interesting presentation because we combined individual proposals to work within one large team. Through the use of a Google Doc, we put our individual presentations in order and never met until the day of the conference. My original submission was done with three MSU MAET classmates and our segment of the presentation covered this concept through the TPACK lens. Here’s our official, snazzy blurb:
“The presenters for this session span elementary through secondary grades and specialize in a wide range of subject areas, including art, music, ESL, foreign language, math, and social studies. What they share is a passion for incorporating technology into the curriculum in ways that lead to engagement and motivation. You’ll hear about a variety of powerful, project-based learning experiences that support Common Core standards while infusing the arts across the curriculum and providing authentic opportunities for students to collaborate and learn” (http://techlearning.com/events/techforum/chicago13/program, 2013).
In working with staff from varying tech backgrounds…how can we pull them all in? While trying to determine a way to hook the audience, I thought, “How am I going to get them to understand the EdTech mindset?” I knew that my first PD would deal with TPACK and I had a lot to think about…
So, I put on my thinking cap and….TPACKed my TPACK PD!
What’s my goal? To bring awareness to EdTech ideas, frameworks, theories, and mindset. To breakdown the information in a way that is relatable and accessible to any level of learner. (It’s the content!)
How will my learners gain knowledge? I want them to have the ability to independently or collaboratively grapple with this information. I also know that I want to model creativity in whatever method I chose. If I want them to use it in the classroom, I should be using it too! (It’s the pedagogy!)
What did my learners need? Something to the point. Don’t get them lost in wordiness or big ideas. Make it something digestible and show appreciation of their time- they’re in meetings all day and nobody likes coming out of PD and feeling like time could have been better utilized. (It’s the context!)
What do my learners know? Teacher talk. Instructional strategies, subject matter, content. They can relate to this! (It’s the context!)
What tool can I use? Video! Highly accessible at any time of day and can be a resource they go to in order to revisit the concept as needed. Also, it provides me with an opportunity to visually represent the concept- taking something more abstract and making it concrete. Keep in mind…people skip ahead while watching online videos (admit it, you’ve done it!). How can I capture their attention so that they get the full message? (It’s the technology!)
Specific Tools Used:
iPhone (video capture)
Tripod, yardstick, and masking tape (you can make a tripod out of ANYTHING…I’ve used the vacuum, cereal boxes, etc. in the past)
3 different color transparencies that are used to organize binders (modeled knowledge areas)
Scissors
Random tools from my desk for props
Student-response whiteboard and marker
One random starburst-cut paper for garage sales (modeled the sweet spot)
iMovie on my Macbook Pro (used to speed up video, add narration, and add text)
So, I challenged myself. Could I explain the base of the TPACK framework in 2 minutes? With an awareness that this is not an in-depth view of the framework, I realized that I could create a “Flash PD”. A quick burst of new or refreshed knowledge. Why not?! This can easily be shown at the introduction to a PD or team meeting and be a conversation starter. Get them asking questions! I’m looking forward to creating the SAMR Flash PD next!
Here’s a look behind the thoughts/scenes of the creation of “TPACK in 2 Minutes”!
Click here to see how we put an EdTech twist on March Madness. Scroll along the image and click to find tips, tools, and tricks for all levels of tech users!
Candace Robertson 