Re-envisioning SAMR

*warning: slight ranting*

I know there are SAMR fans out there and those that aren't super supportive of SAMR. That's fine. We all have our opinions right?  In all reality, it's about what works for you, your teachers, your students, your team.

Now, to say, that I am a fan of SAMR. At least what it represents. I like that it gives a framework for understanding how to gauge how technology is being used in the classroom. SAMR isn't dictating how to use technology, SAMR isn't replacing pedagogy, SAMR isn't taking the creativity out of teaching.  It's a set of guidelines as teachers (myself included) make their way through the sometimes murky waters of integrating technology in the classroom. It is a frame of reference.

However, I admit that I often feel frustrated and sometimes even defeated with how SAMR is viewed and approached. Keeping in mind that SAMR is a frame of reference...many people look to "achieve" R. Ok, that's fine, that's dandy. But before you "achieve" anything...are YOU ready for R? Are your STUDENTS ready for R? Do you have a clear understanding of what R represents in the classroom?

I would like to numerically, clearly point out how to approach SAMR in my opinion.  I do them numerically, so I won't get sassy in my post. Although I did make sure to wear my sassy pants today just so you know.

1. Understand what each level of SAMR represents.  Without a clear understanding, you may not be meeting the level that you have planned for.

2. Look at your objective, your lesson, and your students. What step of SAMR will best support their learning outcomes? If S is what is best, then please just substitute. If M is what is best, then feel free to modify.

3. Once you feel comfortable with integrating technology in a certain step, then start experimenting/collaborating/researching how to integrate another step.  You can always go back and forth.

4. Don't get stuck. If you're happy substituting, still focus on growing and trying new things.

Don't focus on "achieving" each "step" and getting to the "top".  (sorry for the gross over use of air quotes...and yes I made them in the air before I typed them).
Ultimately, remember that understanding and reflection are the keys to effectively utilizing SAMR.

*rant over*  I feel better now...thanks.  :)

image created by Aaron Davis mash up from @JustLego101 & Amy Burvall 

Challenges of Balances

This blog, while professional in nature, is done as part of my own personal love of writing and #edtech.

I haven't kept up with it recently because of "life".  There have been a lot of tasks to handle at work, another job creeps into the picture, planning large family events (weddings, parties, etc), maintaining a home, etc. all seem to take precedence.  I feel run down and tired.  I don't maintain some of the things that I do for me, for my own enjoyment.

I know that I am not the only person that this has ever happened to.  In fact, I know that teachers on a regular basis struggle with this specific dilemma.  I know this because at another point in time, I was that teacher struggling to find balance.  It has never been an easy thing for me to achieve, especially when I have so much on my plate.

So, I put this out there to the world.  How do you find your balance?  How do you juggle everything in your life, while still taking time to focus on yourself?  What do you do to focus on yourself?