Module 3 Reflection: Technology Integration Framework

This module has helped me understand how the various technology integration frameworks apply to the lessons I will present in the following ways...

  The TPACK framework focuses on three areas: Content knowledge, Pedagogical knowledge, and Technological knowledge. These three areas combine to help teachers integrate technology into the classroom. I had always thought that depending on what technology is available is how you would plan your lessons, but this model shows differently. According to the framework, the content knowledge is established first. What do you, as the teacher know, and what background might the students already have? Next pedagogical knowledge is applied in figuring out how to approach the content. What are the best practices to teach this content? Lastly, you layer in the technology and how you can integrate it successfully into your teaching. TPACK has helped me understand the approach I need to take when planning to integrate technology into my lessons. 

   The SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition) framework evaluates how teachers integrate technology. Substitution is the basic on adding technology. On this level, technology literally acts as a substitution (typed work instead of hand-written). The level of thinking does not increase when using substitution. Augmentation, takes it to the next step by using tools within the technology. Modification and Redefinition transforms learning by using higher-order thinking skills and taking technology to the ultimate level in order for students to master their learning target. SAMR has helped me understand that just because you integrate technology does not always mean it has enhanced or transformed learning. In planning, we must explore to what depth we are wanting to use technology and what we want our students to gain from the implementation of technology into the lesson. 

    There are many connections with SAMR and Bloom's Revised Taxonomy. This relationship between these two helps me visualize the link between higher ordered thinking and SAMR. In previous lessons we discussed Project-Based Learning (PBL). Many examples that were given of PBL, implement technology at a modification or redefinition level in order to alter the learning process. Overall, the technology integration frameworks can be applied to my future lessons, by using the frameworks to plan, and evaluate myself on how technology is used in my classroom.