Dr. Ruben Puentedura
What is The SAMR Model?
The SAMR model describes four levels of using technology in education: substitution, augmentation, modification, and redefinition. These levels show how technology can change the way we teach and learn, from basic tools to more advanced and creative uses.
When teachers first move to online learning, they often start with the first two levels: substitution and augmentation. This means replacing traditional materials with digital ones—like turning worksheets into PDFs or recording lessons for students to watch later. These steps are important, especially when adapting to online teaching for the first time.
However, as teachers become more comfortable with technology, they can move into the next levels, modification and redefinition. At these stages, students start using technology in more creative and interactive ways. For example, they might create and share their work through different media or collaborate with experts who give feedback on their projects. In classrooms where technology is fully integrated, students are often involved in new and exciting ways of learning, such as participating in online discussions with peers from around the world.
While it’s easy to think of SAMR as a path to climb, it’s not about reaching the top. Instead, it’s about knowing the different ways technology can be used and choosing the right approach for each lesson. The goal is to find the best way to use tech for the specific needs of the class and make learning more engaging.
Let’s dive into what using technology looks like at each stage of the SAMR model in the next section.
Four Stages of the SAMR Model
Substitution
Substitution is the simplest way to use technology in teaching, where it directly replaces traditional methods without changing much about the learning process. This approach helps save time and space, as it reduces the need for tasks like using paper and pens. For example, instead of printing out tons of worksheets that fill up your storage, you can manage everything digitally with just a few clicks.
This stage is also a good way for students to get used to technology. It’s an easy way to introduce them to digital tools and skills, helping them feel comfortable before moving on to more complex ways of learning with technology.
Some examples of substitution include:
- Students typing their work instead of writing by hand.
- Using online quizzes instead of paper tests.
- Uploading a worksheet as a PDF for students to access, rather than photocopying.
- Using a digital whiteboard instead of a regular one, and saving the notes as a file.
It’s important to remember that substitution doesn’t change what students are learning or how they learn it. Before using technology, think about whether it will truly help. If it just adds extra work, sticking to traditional methods might be better.
Augmentation
At the augmentation stage, technology goes beyond just making things easier – it adds something extra to the learning experience. It helps students better understand difficult topics or makes lessons more interesting in ways that traditional teaching methods might not be able to.
This stage also encourages students to take more control of their learning. Instead of always depending on the teacher, they can use technology to explore and learn on their own.
For example, students can give more detailed and engaging presentations using tools like PowerPoint which include videos, images, or other media. They can also use the internet to research topics independently, without needing the teacher to provide all the information. Another example is when students use an educational program that turns learning into a game, making it more fun while allowing them to track their own progress.
Teachers might also show a video to help explain something that’s hard to explain with just words, making the concept clearer for students.
Modification
At the modification stage, technology helps create activities that are more engaging and interactive than what’s possible in a regular classroom. It allows students to work together in shared spaces or large groups, making teamwork and idea-sharing smoother. This approach encourages a more collaborative and lively learning environment.
Modified tasks also give students the freedom to explore creative ways of learning and presenting ideas, moving beyond paper-based assignments. Some students enjoy creating videos, while others might aim for achievements like ranking high on an online math leaderboard.
Examples of modified tasks:
- Students can record podcasts to summarise a topic. These podcasts can then be used by their classmates for revision.
- Instead of giving a typical oral presentation, students can make videos using their voice along with visuals, animations, or other creative elements.
- Technology can help make difficult concepts easier to understand. For instance, students can explore Google Earth to learn about geography and measurement in a more hands-on way.
Redefinition
Redefinition is the stage in the SAMR model where technology is used to create new learning experiences that wouldn’t be possible otherwise. It helps students connect their learning to real-world situations and develop valuable digital skills like collaboration, communication, and adapting to new tools. This approach makes learning more engaging and encourages students to think and grow in new ways.
Here are some examples of redefinition:
- Linking students with people worldwide to learn from their experiences.
- Sharing student work online for feedback from peers and the larger community.
- Recording students during presentations or skill practice and using the recordings for self-reflection.
- Designing tasks that combine different media, like making videos, websites, or creative print projects.
It’s important to remember that redefinition doesn’t mean just using advanced technology. It’s about using tech in a meaningful way that adds something new to the learning process, no matter how simple or complex the tool might be.
Reference:
https://www.extramarks.com/blogs/schools/samr-model
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