SAMR stands for Substitution Augmentation Modification and Redefinition. It is a model and common language that teachers can use to evaluate how they implement technology into their classrooms. It can be used as a reflection tool on technology integration.
Here are examples of apps or tech tools that fit into the SAMR model.
The +William Davies Middle School is a front runner on using technology. Every teacher has a laptop and their classroom has an Elmo document camera and a projector. The students in 7th and 8th grade are 1:1 using Dell Netbooks with Windows 7 and 6th grade students are sharing Google Chromebooks. We are a Google Apps for Education school and a BYOD school.
Many teachers feel more comfortable using technology than others. The teachers who are not tech savvy may be in the substitution stage, which is fine. As a Technology Integration Coach, I give them praise, encouragement, ideas and support to use and try new technology tools that will engage students and make their lessons more tech based. Teachers who are tech savvy, are leaders and encourage one another to try using tools in the modification and/or redefinition levels. However, technology should never replace teaching, it should be used as a tool to enhance learning.
Here are the definitions and examples of using the SAMR model:
Substitution: Technology acts as a direct substitution tool, with no functional change. Teachers and students use new tech tools to replace old ones, for example, MS Word with Google Docs.
- Dictionary.com
- Google Docs
Augmentation: Technology acts as a direct substitution tool, with functional improvement.
- Haiku Deck
- Google Docs
Modification: Technology allows for task design. Tasks are being completed using technology. Technology is being used more effectively, redesign new parts of the task and transform student learning.
- QR codes
- Audioboom
- Google Docs and collaboration
Redefinition: Technology allows for the creation of new tasks that were not previously foreseen. It is the highest level.
- Google Apps for Education
- Google Classroom
- Edmodo
- Voicethread
More information on the SAMR model can be found at:
EdTechChat BamRadio Network
Common Sense Media
Kathy Schrock, A Guide to Everthing - SAMR
Educational Technology and Mobile Learning