SAMR/Bloom's in a Technology Classroom

I am still new to this iPad thing, so I haven't had a chance to fully incorporate apps into my classroom.  I have used Keynote and Movie Maker and found it great.  My students enjoy using these programs for presentations and what they have created to demonstrate a concept has been nothing short of amazing.  I found that the kids enjoy the opportunity to be at the level of creativity that these programs allow them to be.   I have also found that these programs also facilitate a variety of learning styles as well.  I am not sure, but I guess these programs will fall into the category of "Creating" in Bloom's and Modification in SAMR.

In regards to a program we use in school, I want to look at Acuity.  This program allows for "Applying", "Understanding", and "Remembering".  I believe that most standardized tests fall within these categories.

Technology in My Classroom

I would love to say that I use technology to its fullest extent in my classroom, but that wouldn't be honest.  My use of technology has evolved.  My lessons are posted on Edline and most of my parent communication takes place through email.  It's wonderful to be able to streamline say a commercial or something from the news to accentuate a lesson.  The kids seem to really enjoy polleverywhere.com, and though it may not have a tremendous amount of educational value, it does serve as an effective hook.  I have used my iPad to serve as a learning tool for my ESL students through the Flashcards Pro app and online books.

There are several areas of technology, however, where I am falling short.  For example, essays for my AP classes should be submitted electronically, but I haven't gotten there yet.  I would like to make good use of blogs as well.  It would be nice to have something like what Marshall uses, Blackboard, to better manage assignments.  My daughter used this program somewhat at Fairland and it was set up with a program that checked for plagiarism.  That would be useful.  In essence, I may have come a long way, but I have a long way yet to go before I can proudly claim to promote technology in my classroom.

Technology Gone Haywire

It is inevitable that technology will fail from time to time.  What makes these times particularly challenging, however, is when the failure occurs in front of thirty unsympathetic teenagers.  I have learned to never count on the server, that a paper and pen back up plan is a must.  There is nothing worse than being  in a computer lab with a large group of students with nothing to do.  This type of situation will always lead to chaos and mahem.  You better believe that there will be chair races, loud verbal exchanges, and fifty trips to the bathroom.

When technology goes haywire, it is important to be adaptable.  You will lose the control and direction of your classroom if you spend too much time trying to fix the problem, save that for your planning period if it looks like a quick fix isn't possible.  It's important to have cat-like reflexes and a toolbox full of alternative assignments or presentations so that you can keep the momentum going.  Additionally, don't let the kids see you frazzled, keep your cool at all times.  They can smell weakness.