TEACHERS have learnt about the importance of integrating technology in the classroom from two of the top experts in the field.
The teachers, from various schools across Brisbane Catholic Education, came together at Apple’s head office in Brisbane City for the exclusive afternoon presentation and networking event with Dr Ruben Puentedura and Dr Damian Bebell.
Dr Puentedura is the founder and president of Hippasus, and the creator of the SAMR model, designed to help educators infuse technology into teaching and learning.
The model supports and enables teachers to design, develop and infuse digital learning experiences that utilise technology.
Dr Puentedura shared some of his research and pioneering work on how mobile technology was transforming learning in schools around the world and how educators can use technology to redefine learning.
Teachers were both affirmed and inspired by his clarity and articulation of the model which they have been using to plan and reflect on learning and teaching within their school.
Dr Bebell is from the Centre for the Study of Testing, Evaluation and Public Policy at the Lynch School of Education at Boston College, in the United States.
He led a discussion on how research can sustain and advance learning initiatives and measure the impacts of educational technology on learning and education reform.
Dr Bebell shared some of his recent research from schools across the world, allowing the group to identify many common trends for learners with technology and the importance of pedagogical support for teachers when introducing technology into the classroom.
Teachers left the afternoon inspired and enthusiastic to try new ways of integrating technology within their roles.
Tina Vingas, from Jubilee Primary School, Pacific Pines, said being part of the group was exactly what she needed to inspire a new week of learning.
She said it was a gratifying, motivating, inspiring and thought-provoking session with the experts.
