First developed by Puentedura (2003), SAMR was originally intended to be part of a larger discussion on the appropriateness of specific technologies, not on their effectiveness in revolutionizing instruction. Furthermore, as Idhe noted (as cited by Ralón, 2010), technology can never fully take the place of human-environment interaction.

Best-practice instruction should take into consideration SAMR; technology should not be used for the sake of technology itself but in order to enhance, improve, or re-imagine teaching and learning. When coupled with the ideas of the Learning-Model Spectrum, Personalized Learning, and the RAMP Model, the use of SAMR is critical in identifying the appropriate technology tools necessary for effective instruction.