SAMR

Hi Guys!


On Thursday January 24, 2014 I listened in on a Webinar hosted by Susan Oxenvad; I want to share some key points that I think was very useful.

Susan talked about SAMR.

What is SAMR?

SAMR is a model of technology integration for educators which was designed by Dr. Ruben R. Puentedura, Ph.D.

SAMR is integrated into four steps:

Redefinition- Technology allows for the creation of new tasks, in the past it was inconceivable.

Modification- Technology allows for significant task redesign.
(These steps are apart of the Transformation process)

Augmentation- Technology acts as a direct tool substitute, with functional improvement.

Substitution- Technology acts as a direct tool substitute, with no functional change.
(These steps are apart of the Enhancement process)

SAMR also teaches educators to teach above the line. Which is most definitely needed!

For substitution it teaches you to use technology instead of the traditional pen, paper, and book.

For Augmentation it replaces such things as a dictionary (instead you will use spell check). Copy and pasting is used as well, along with creating an online collage  rather than the traditional collage where paper and pencil is used.

The modification level is above the line. With modification educators are allowed to design lessons with the tasks that are new, that are credited to the capabilities of technology. Multimedia plays a major role in modification too.

The learning process is transformed greatly. Also this collaboration doesn't end in the classroom, you can resume at home or wherever.

Redefinition which is the highest of the high. You are allowed to skype with an astronaut (if you want :)), which is way cool! As well as you can virtually  interact with students across the US. Redefinition is extremely awesome and allows educators to educate beyond the traditional classroom.

For me the Webinar was extremely informative, useful, and exciting. I would definitely use this in my future classroom :)

~Hafiza

No Techy for ALL

In reading through the power point what stood out for me was the statement "The school that a student attends explains some of the differences in the students' use of technology."

This statement is very true. As I stated in my previous post, I've worked at several CPS Schools for the "Homeless Education Program. One school in particular was on the South Side of Chicago where we were tucked in a storage room in  the basement, our desk was a  long lunch room table; along with old edition math, and reading workbooks. I worked at another school in the Wrigley neighborhood where every student had a desktop computer, with working headphones, and up to date software.

I think it is extremely unfair to compare the scores of schools when one school is lacking in current technology.

Technology is surely needed in all schools in order for the children to learn effectively. There are countless educational games and curriculum that can help children excel in all subjects.

The schools that are in " the bad neighborhoods" are lacking for several reasons:

1. SOME teachers are resentful so they don't put in 100%.

2. Lack of current technology.

3. SOME parents don't really care in return their children don't either.

4. Priorities aren't in order; children aren't thought of first.

5. Crime

When I was coming up in the CPS system my teachers would really help us in subjects we weren't proficient in. Teachers would take time out on there busy weekends, and have a long chat with parents in regards to if their child was passing or failing. What happen to that type of dedication from teachers? Nowadays its easier to get a degree and get a "teaching job". Today school is merely something to do for these students who have zero drive and ambition. Teachers need to spark an interest in their students so they can achieve.

~Hafiza.....

Introduction to Hafiza

Hello my name is Hafiza Karim (Ha-fee-zah Ca-reem). I was born and raised in Chicago, IL. I lived here in Chicago my entire life. Being a Chicagoan you are suppose to adapt to the winters here, not me! I hate the winters here. I often joke that Chicago only has two seasons Summer and Winter, but there's no place like Chicago.

In my spare time I enjoy watching black and white films, water color painting, and giving back to my community. During the summer I like to spend as much time as I can at the beach baking in the sun. I've been thinking about taking up knitting as a hobby; I'm a bit intrigued by knitting currently. I enjoy spending quality time with my love ones as well.

I've been working with children since I was in the eighth grade where I tutored the younger children at my school. I've worked for CPS in the Homeless Education Program for two years. The program ended due to lack of funding which was very unfortunate. I've volunteered at several daycare centers just to get a feel of what goes on in that particular field. I've had some good experiences, and some bad ones. I can honestly say working with children is fulfilling for me. I'm attending NLU to receive my B.A in ECE, after that I would like to get my Master's in Child Psychology. I'm so concerned about the state of mind of the children coming up today. Currently I'm an infant teacher at a center that's affiliated with KinderCare.

I became a teacher because I truly believe children are our future. My passion for children is very strong. I'm currently in the process of publishing a children's book, along with opening my own daycare center.

In the future I look forward to getting married, having children, and owning two black pugs that I shall name Mr. Murphy and Morris. As well as using the knowledge I have acquired to help as many children as I can.

-Hafiza