Accelerating learning through digital technologies
AIM Models
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| AIM model example (capturing Intention) |
The AIM models are key thinking tools, used throughout our Approach, designed to help teachers reflect on their TPK - their Technological Pedagogical Knowledge.
The models are designed to be used in three stages:
- First an Analysis of an individual teachers TPK.
- Next their Intention to change practice to enhance their skills.
- Finally a Measurement of how well they have met their personal objective.
The AIM models are designed to capture the human side of the APT methodology, i.e. how individuals are currently using, and how they intend to use, digital technology in teaching and learning. They support the alignment between pedagogy and technology by helping teachers both to reflect on current practice and also to design changes to practice.
Download a printable AIM model
The six dimensions of teaching and learning
The AIM models are split into six dimensions of teaching and learning derived from a range of educational research in this field. These dimensions in turn have been mapped against the UK Government teachers' standards, so that our Approach can blend seamlessly into existing staff development and planning.
The initial analysis stage is completed either using the Technological Pedagogical Knowledge (TPK) Quiz, or through personal reflection on current practice, usually in small groups assisted by a mentor. Once this analysis stage is visualised, intention is added, i.e. new marks are added to the charts as to where the individual teacher and/or group wishes to move towards, together with an initial description of how this development is going to take place in practice. Tech Trumps® are used to facilitate this process, as they suggest the specific digital technologies that have the capacity to support this movement.
Timing
The analysis and intention stages are designed to be completed soon after each other, or even at the same time, in order in inform changes to practice. The same AIM models also support a measure phase which takes place after changes have been implemented, designed to reflect on those changes and suggest ways forward.