Innovator's Mindset by George Couros (Part 3 Task)

Task: Compare Dr. Ruben Puentedura’s SAMR model (http://bit.do/SAMRtl) with Bernajean Porter’s idea of moving from literate, to adaptive, to transformative (157).


The SAMR model utilizes a very clever pool analogy that captures your attention because the the simple graphics and colors.  If you go to the link (above) the information is given in text boxes that pop up when you hover over the main idea spots.  There are these extra information spots for each area of the pool, the diving board, support person, and there are also additional spots along the edges of the pool where you are able to access other resources.  There is a blog spot, a spot for feedback, a spot on the line linked to a video, and two spots that link to the creator of the model.  There is also a link in the bottom, right corner to the program used, Thinglink.

The SAMR image/resource is different in almost every way from Porter's idea listed on page 157 of George Couros' book.  It is interactive, visually stimulating, connected to various other resources, and easy for the average person to connect with.  The graphic simplifies the idea into small, but powerful pieces and then offers ideas on how to support the learner and the teacher as well as offering opportunities for the ability to achieve exponential growth.

If we stick with the "Pool analogy" and Porter's idea, the class featuring 50 tools is the kiddy pool or the shallow end (Literate).  By limiting the options, you move into deeper water (Adaptive). By providing time for exploration and collaboration you have been allowed in the deep end (Transformative).

Porter's idea is presented in print with no graphics and at first I thought that it was limited by the lack of visual aid, but then realized that the lack was in the extras.  The extras that are missing from Porter's idea completely and shown in the SAMR model are: the supports (the person standing by the pool with floatation devices), content and pedagogy (the diving board), and most important, the rope (the line that divides the pool).

These "extras" are the difference between stagnating or capping off learning and the ability to reach for unimagined possibilities.  It is the extra pieces of the SAMR model that are the key to unlimited potential.