I teach all subjects of all-day kindergarten. After reading about the SAMR Model, I realized how the resources and technology that I have in my classroom applies to each of the categories.
SAMR Definitions and Classroom Examples:
Substitution- Computer technology replaces traditional methods but does not change the function of the task. Using an Elmo to project a paper activity onto the whiteboard.
Augmentation- Computer technology substitutes a tool and provides functional improvement. During reading centers, my students use a program, Raz-Kids, to listen to and practice reading.
Modification- Computer technology enhances and redesigns traditional classroom tasks. The program, Raz-Kids, allows my students to record themselves reading a book. I am able to login to the teacher dashboard and listen to, save, and email their reading to parents.
Redefinition- Computer technology that creates new tasks that was previously inconceivable. My students use a program, eSpark, and follow a personalized educational plan in reading and math. They are assigned apps to play and videos to watch based on an adaptive computerized test administered. Once students complete a pre-test, watch the videos, complete the apps, and pass the post-test, they must record a re-teaching video. I am able to login to the teacher dashboard to view, save, and email their recordings to parents.
I think your example of the "M" is borderline "R" as well.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Dr. Siko on your "M" example. This "Raz-Kids" tool sounds phenomenal! Definitely a game-changer. Being a high school math teacher, I have little knowledge of what goes on in the kindergarten classroom, but "Raz-Kids" sounds like it is indeed re-defining the classroom. Also, in your "R" example, I was astonished by the equally powerful"eSpark" program. These tools just sound like they benefit all stakeholders, not just the student. Excellent job, Juliana.
ReplyDeleteThank you! Raz-Kids is terrific! My students can also login from their home computers. Unfortunately, eSpark does not have the same home-connection, but it may be an option in the near future.
DeleteThe R is very exciting. Computer adaptive learning is what so many education technology companies are working towards. With the approaching PARCC and Smarter Balanced testing on the horizon I believe we will see more and more of this. How many subject areas does eSpark address? Does your district have eSpark available for all grades? If so and it follows the student through their elementary years it could have an incredible impact.
ReplyDeleteeSpark addresses both Math and Language Arts. I believe the company has the program available for grade K-8, but at this time, only K-1 students have access in my district. We started with the program last year with kindergarten students and this year it moved up to first grade with those students. I believe the goal is for that to continue with that class.
DeleteJuliana, I really didn't know how much technology they were using in kindergarten until i read your response. I know there are a lot of technical tools that help young children learn how to read and write by reading to them on tape and video. I think the SAMR Model has replaced using up a lot of paper and pencils practicing, Raz-kids could help students hear what a good reader sounds like, technology in the beginning stages has modified what kids are expecting as they progress to the next level and certainly computers in kindergarten has redefined how young children think and use their imagination.
ReplyDeleteThe Raz-Kids program seems amazing! I have not heard of it before, but this seems like an incredible program. Having the ability to record the kid reading is great for formative assessment and really give you data as a teacher when you're speaking to parents about progress or the lack of. I'm definitely going to check out this program!
ReplyDeleteIt is terrific! Raz-Kids covers A-Z reading levels. It's also a great home-connection tool as students can login from any computer.
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