Dr. Ruben Puentedura on SAMR, AI, and Transformative Learning

In this episode of the Integrate This! EdTech Podcast, we’re joined by Ruben Puentedura, creator of the SAMR model and founder of Hippasus, for a deep conversation on learning design, professional development, and what generative AI means for education.

Ruben shares his origin story, how SAMR emerged from real classroom research, and why the model is more relevant than ever in the age of AI. We explore common mistakes schools make with professional development, how learning should evolve beyond tools, and why creativity, storytelling, and student agency are essential for meaningful transformation.

This episode goes beyond buzzwords and gets into how learning actually changes—from K–12 classrooms to higher education, business, and beyond.