The SAMR Model

The SAMR model (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition) is a learning framework that is used to evaluate the use of technology in education. The model was developed by Dr. Ruben Puentedura in 2006, and it is designed to help educators and instructional designers understand how technology can be used to enhance teaching and learning.

At this level, technology is used to replace an existing task or activity, without changing the nature of the task itself. For example, using a word processing program to type a report or essay instead of writing it by hand.

In the SAMR model, Substitution refers to the use of technology to replace an existing task or activity without changing the nature of the task itself. This level of technology integration is considered the most basic, and it typically involves using technology to perform tasks that were previously done manually. Some examples of substitution in education include:

1. Using a word processing program to type a report/essay instead of writing it by hand.
2. Using an online calculator to perform mathematical calculations instead of using a traditional calculator.
3. Using an e-reader to read an electronic version of a book instead of reading the printed version.
4. Using a digital presentation tool to create a slideshow instead of using overhead transparencies or paper handouts.
5. Using online assignments and testing platforms instead of paper-based assignments and testing.

In all these examples, the technology is used to perform a task that was previously done manually, but the task itself is essentially the same. The technology is simply used as a replacement for the previous method of performing the task.

It is important to note that, while substitution can make tasks more efficient and convenient, it will not automatically enhance the learning process itself. It may make the task of teaching and learning more efficient, but it does not necessarily change the nature of the task or activity.

At this level, technology is used to enhance or augment an existing task or activity. For example, using a spell checker to improve the accuracy of an essay, or using an online translation tool to communicate with students who speak different languages.

In the SAMR model, Augmentation refers to the use of technology to enhance or augment an existing task or activity. This level of technology integration goes beyond simply replacing a task and instead uses technology to enhance the task. Some examples of augmentation in education can include:

1. Using a spell checker to improve the accuracy of a written report.
2. Using an online translation tool to communicate with students who speak different languages.
3. Using an online research tool to access a wider range of information for a project or assignment.
4. Using a digital annotation tool to highlight and make notes on a digital text.
5. Using an interactive whiteboard in a classroom setting to make presentations more engaging and interactive.
6. Using a Learning Management System (LMS) to track student progress and provide individual feedback.

In all of the above examples, the technology is used to enhance the task by providing an additional functionality or resources that were not previously available. The technology is used to augment the task and enhances the task, and it can enhance the teaching and learning process by providing new opportunities for engagement and creativity.

It is important to note that while augmentation can enhance the learning process and can make it more engaging, it still relies on the same basic task or activity, and it does not fundamentally change the task being completed.

At this level, technology is used to significantly change or modify an existing task or activity. For example, using a collaborative document editing tool to allow students to work on a group project in real-time, or using a simulation tool to demonstrate a scientific concept.

In the SAMR model, Modification refers to the use of technology to significantly change or modify an existing task or activity. This level of technology integration goes beyond simply replacing or enhancing a task and instead uses technology to fundamentally change the task. Some examples of modification in education include:

1. Using a collaborative document editing tool to allow students to work on a group project in real-time, regardless of their location.
2. Using a simulation tool to demonstrate a scientific concept, allowing students to conduct virtual experiments and analyse data.
3. Using a virtual reality platform to create immersive and interactive learning experiences.
4. Using a gamification approach to make learning more engaging and interactive.
5. Using a virtual field trip to take students to places they would not have been able to visit otherwise.

In these examples, the technology is used to fundamentally change the task by providing new opportunities for interaction and engagement. The technology changes the nature of the task, and this can change the way teaching and learning takes place.

It is important to note that while modification can change the way teaching and learning takes place, it still requires a clear understanding of the learning objectives and the pedagogy behind the task, in order to ensure that the technology is used in an appropriate and effective way.

At this level, technology is used to create new tasks or activities that were previously not possible. For example, creating a virtual reality environment for students to explore and interact with, or using a 3D printer to create physical models.

In the SAMR model, Redefinition refers to the use of technology to create new tasks or activities that were previously not possible. This level of technological integration goes beyond simply replacing, enhancing or modifying a task and instead uses technology to create new forms of tasks and activities. Some examples of redefinition in education include:

1. Creating a virtual reality environment for students to explore and interact with historical sites or natural phenomena.
2. Using a 3D printer to create physical models of objects or structures that students can examine and manipulate.
3. Using a coding platform to create interactive and dynamic multimedia projects.
4. Using artificial intelligence-powered tutoring systems that adapt to the individual needs and learning style of each student.
5. Using online marketplaces that connect students with real-world projects and mentors.

In these examples, the technology is used to create new tasks or activities that were not previously possible. The technology allows for the creation of new forms of learning and assessment that were not available before, and this can change the way teaching and learning takes place.

It is important to note that while redefinition can change the way teaching and learning takes place, it requires a clear understanding of the learning objectives and the pedagogy behind the task, in order to ensure that the technology is used in an appropriate and effective way. It also requires teachers and educators to be creative and innovative in their approach to using technology in the classroom.

The SAMR model is useful in education because it provides a clear framework for understanding how technology can be used to enhance teaching and learning. It helps educators and instructional designers evaluate the use of technology in their classrooms and provides a clear way to think about the different ways technology can be used.

SAMR helps educators to understand how technology can be used to support and improve the learning process. By identifying the level of technology integration, educators can ensure that they are using technology in a way that is appropriate and effective for their students.

It helps educators to identify opportunities for innovation and creativity. As educators move up through the levels of the SAMR model, they can identify new and unique ways to use technology in their classrooms, and this can lead to more engaging and effective learning experiences for students.

It helps educators to evaluate the impact of technology on learning. By using the SAMR model, educators can evaluate whether technology is having a positive impact on student learning, and if it is not, they can make adjustments to their use of technology to improve the learning outcomes.

It helps educators to make informed decisions about technology integration. It encourages teachers to consider the relationship between the technology they are using and the learning objectives they are trying to achieve, in order to make the best use of technology in their classrooms.

The SAMR model is not a strict linear progression, but more of a guide to help educators to reflect on their practice and make informed decisions about technology integration. It can be a useful tool to evaluate the use of technology in education and make sure that it is being used in a way that enhances the teaching and learning process.