Theories and Models

Rachel Furhman
Grand Canyon University
TEC-516: Instructional Theories and Models in Technology Education
Dr. E. Bradley
December 15, 2021
 Constructivist Theory
• “The constructivist theory is based around the
idea that learners are active participants in their
learning journey; knowledge is constructed
based on experiences” (Kurt, 2021, para. #1) .
• Students learn through:
• Exploring their own interests and ideas
• Collaboration
• Teacher as a facilitator
(BlueSofaMedia, 2012)
Constructivism and Technology
• Technology provides a way for
students to gather information
• Enables students to use a variety of
communication tools
• Provides new ways to present
information
• Allows students to collaborate
outside of the classroom
(Vander Ark, 2020)
 Cognitive Theory
• Based on the work of Piaget
• "seeks to explain how the mind
works during the learning process”
(Padgett, 2020, para. #5)
• Characteristics:
• Engages senses
• Connects new information with prior
knowledge (BlueSofaMedia, 2013)
 Cognitive Theory and Technology
• Technology aids in cognitive learning by allowing
students to:
• Focus on specific tasks
• Engage with images and videos
• Interact with information
• Cognitive learning tools include:
• Virtual games and puzzles
• Online Flashcards
• Concept Mapping
(Cognitive Learning Series, 2021)
 SAMR Model
• “four tiers of online
learning, presented
roughly in order of their
sophistication and
transformative power”
(Terada, 2020, para. #5)
• Substitution
• Augmentation
• Modification
• Redefinition
(Brubaker, 2013)
 • Substitution-provides students with resources outside the classroom, and
cuts back on the use of paper and pencil.
• Upload your assignments, vocabulary lists, novels so that they are
available online
• Augmentation-makes learning more engaging, “students can start actively
learning without requiring constant teacher-led instruction” (Best, 2015,
para. #9).
• Create an online bulletin or discussion board
• Have students keep an online portfolio of their work

SAMR •
•
Create interactive assignments or quizzes
Students can present work using tools like PowerPoints, Prezis,
Strategies Powtoons, etc.…
• Modification “technology not only enhances the learning activity, it also
significantly transforms it” (Fastiggi, 2014, para. #6)
• Students present work using tools like podcasts and videos
• Utilize chat rooms to collaborate
• Redefinition-technology creates new learning experiences
• Virtual pen-pals
• Virtual Field trips
• Visits with authors or other professionals through video conferencing
 Active Learning
Model
• “Active learning is an approach to instruction that
involves actively engaging students with the course
material through discussions, problem solving, case
studies, role plays and other methods” (What is active
learning, n.d., para #1).
• Active learning strategies include:
• Roleplaying
• Discussions
• Hands on learning
• Think Pair Share
(Warren, 2021)
 Active Learning and Technology

Enhance student learning through
online graphic organizers or
infographics using tools like
Canva to hep organize
information.
Retell a story using storyboards or Use interactive games on platforms
by making a movie or Powtoon like Kahoot, Blooket or Quizlet to
giving students the chance to help students review information.
demonstrate their understanding in
a way other than simply writing a
summary.
 References
Best, J. (2021, January 11). The SAMR model explained (with 15 practical examples). 3P Learning.
https://www.3plearning.com/blog/connectingsamrmodel/. 
BlueSofaMedia. (2012, December 30). Use a learning theory: Constructivism. YouTube. Retrieved
December 12, 2021, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xa59prZC5gA. 
BlueSofaMedia. (2013, July 5). Use a learning theory: Cognitivism. YouTube. Retrieved December 12,
2021, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gugvpoU2Ewo
Brubaker, J. (1970, January 1). SAMR: Model, metaphor, mistakes. Blogger.
http://techtipsedu.blogspot.com/2013/11/samr-model-metaphor-mistakes.html. 
Cognitive learning series. (n.d.). University of San Diego Professional & Continuing Ed.
https://pce.sandiego.edu/public/category/courseCategoryCertificateProfile.do%3Bjsessionid=C098F4E
9DBD5
A4A5C4BF4F59A99DC614?method=load&certificateId=25214&. 
Fastiggi, W. (2014). Technology for learners - Learn to use technology and use technology to learn: The
SAMR model. https://technologyforlearners.com/the-samr-model/. 
Kurt, S. (2021, February 21). Constructivist learning theory. Educational Technology.
https://educationaltechnology.net/constructivist-learning-theory/. 
Padgett, D. (2020, September 2). Learning theories: Understanding the 4 major ones for the classroom.
LeaderinMe. https://www.leaderinme.org/blog/learning-theories/. 
Terada, Y. (2020, May 4). A powerful model for understanding good tech integration. Edutopia.
https://www.edutopia.org/article/powerful-model-understanding-good-tech-integration 
Vander Ark, T. (2020, January 11). 7 Ways Tech supports collaborative learning. Getting Smart.
https://www.gettingsmart.com/2020/01/11/7-ways-tech-supports-collaborative-learning/. 
Warren, E. (2021, January 12). How to help students be active learners. Good Sensory Learning.
https://goodsensorylearning.com/blogs/news/how-to-be-active-learner. 
What is active learning. (n.d.). Teaching and learning in higher education.
https://www.queensu.ca/teachingandlearning/modules/active/04_what_is_active_learning.html.