iPad Pedagogy

Below, I will be describing 4 video samples that represent the SAMR model of learning as well as reflecting on which SAMR level each activity represents.

SUBSTITUTION: 5th Grade in Hamilton, Michigan 1:03

In this video clip, 5th graders are using the iPad to solve multiplication problems.  They are essentially writing and solving the problem on the iPad, rather than on paper.  In this case students are simply substituting the paper they would normally use for the iPad.  No new learning is going on here, but students may be more engaged by being able to perform tasks on the iPad.

AUGMENTATION: 9th Grade iPad Initiative 2:25

In this video, a student is shown checking out a book in the library.  The librarian uses the iPad to scan the book after signing in to the student's account.  When she scans the barcode in the app it checks the book out to that student.  This is an example of how iPads can make learning more efficient.

MODIFICATION: Chicago iPads in the classroom 0.35

Students are able to take a virtual fieldtrip everyday using web content on their iPads.  The students are able to search for images to inspire their writing.  I think this is a Modification because the task is being redesigned.  Without the technology, I would imagine these students may brainstorm a list of ideas to write about.  With the use of the iPad the task is now able to be redesigned using technology and providing an opportunity for learning beyond what they were able to do without the use of the iPad.

REDEFINITION: Quincy 5th Graders 1:05

Students are using iPads to write, film and edit a one minute commercial to sell bracelets to help raise money for their outdoor classroom.  With the use of the iPad students are collaborating and creating new tasks that they could not do without the use of the iPad.

I can see the SAMR model for learning is closely connected with BLOOMS Digital Taxonomy. Substitution and Augmentation are the lower level thinking skills of Understanding and Remembering, where Modification and Redefinition tend to employ the higher level thinking skills such as Analyzing, Evaluating and Creating.

I also found this great video of the importance of iPads in the art room.  One example of the information presented in this video is at 3:36 where a Draw app is mentioned. Students are able to collaborate on a drawing using a bluetooth connection.  The video also mentioned that students can upload their artwork to a class blog or virtual gallery and comment on their classmates' artwork.  In my classroom, students often collaborate on artwork.  I would love to see this done using technology.  I also hope to be able to acquire some iPads for our art room so that students could view our online gallery and have the opportunity to comment on their classmates' work.  We do that now through sharing time at the end of class, but I think students would take advantage of this if they had more access to our online gallery.