TPACK vs SAMR

TPACK is a research based model that can be used by teachers to help identify content areas they might need to focus on in order to more effectively teach with technology.  The three main areas are Technological Knowledge, Pedagogical Knowledge, and Content Knowledge.  Technological Knowledge is presented as the knowledge and mastery of technology so that the teacher can confidently use technology even when it is not required.  Pedagogical Knowledge is the knowledge and practice of teaching and learning that a teacher can use in their class.  Content Knowledge is the knowledge of the subject content and ways to develop that knowledge. 










                      

As shown in the image above,  these areas overlap with each other and the goal is to be able to effectively combine all three areas.  I think this a good model from a broader perspective.  What I mean is that one can look at this model and quickly ascertain the meaning and direction that it is going. TPACK is a good model because it not only provides the teacher with all the content knowledge areas, but gives a blueprint for integrating the different areas.  TPACK is the model I would choose for everyday classroom teaching.  


 

The SAMR Model (Shown above) refers to substitution, augmentation, modification, and redefinition.  It seems more geared towards online learning and technology in the classroom.  This model makes me think of differentiation. It can be a great tool for helping teachers trying to learn and discover new ways to teach material.  Too often we can get bogged down in the same routine because we are not sure how to break out of a specific routine.  The SAMR model provides a road map to create new ways of teaching material.

SAMR can be very useful when trying to develop a new way for teaching a specific topic, but I think the TPACK model gives a better representation of what the overall goal should be for a teacher.