Going deeper into the SAMR model
The SAMR model encourages us to reflect on how we can use technology to take our designs to a new level.
Let’s take a look at the different stages of the SAMR model and imagine the same assignment throughout.
Example Assignment:
In a history class a teacher asks students to write an essay about a particular topic or issue that the class have been studying together.
Substitution
At the Substitution level, the technology is used to replace an existing task, without changing the task or goal of the task in any significant way. This level of use essentially just provides the same task but through a digital format.
An example of this might be the difference between a student handwriting their essay and typing their essay on a laptop.
Augmentation
Augmentation involves the addition of new capabilities to an existing task, without altering the fundamental task or goal. This level of use provides new features or capabilities to the task, making it easier or more efficient to complete.
An example of this might be the difference between a teacher marking a printed copy of an essay, and a teacher adding comments, edits, and feedback to an essay via a tool such as Google Docs.
Modification
Modification implies changing the task and providing new ways of completing the task. This level of use involves adapting the task to take advantage of the capabilities of the technology.
An example of this could be the difference between a student submitting an essay and a group of students collaboratively producing a video.
Redefinition
Finally, Redefinition requires the technology to completely redefine the task and allow for entirely new ways of completing the task that was not previously possible. This level of use is the most advanced and allows for entirely new possibilities to be explored.
An example of this could be offering students the opportunity to respond to an assignment in a way they choose – producing a narrated VR tour of a historic location, 3D printing and presenting historic artefacts, recording, editing, and publishing a podcast or video series. or inviting an expert to engage with the class via a video conferencing platform and interviewing them.
The SAMR model helps us to think about how we can use technology to move from simply substituting the tools of the classroom for digital tools, to augmenting those tools by making them more efficient, to modifying the learning activities of the classroom, to ultimately redefining the learning experience and creating new possibilities that would not have been available without the use of technology.
Reflection Questions
The SAMR model encourages us to think about how technology can be used to enhance our instructional designs and improve the overall learning experience.
What potential do you think the SAMR model could have for improving your teaching?
Are there any areas where you think the SAMR model could be applied to enhance your instructional designs?