SUBSTITUTE, AUGMENTATION, MODIFICATION, REDEFINITION

The SAMR model is a framework used in education to assess the integration of technology into teaching and learning activities. SAMR stands for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. 

Popularized by Dr. Ruben Puentedura, the  model supports and enables teachers to design, develop, and infuse digital learning experiences that utilize technology. The goal is  to transform learning experiences so they result in higher levels of achievement for students.

SAMR categorizes different levels of technology integration based on the impact it has on the learning experience.

In a substitution level, teachers or students utilize new technology tools as direct replacements for older ones, such as using Google Docs instead of Microsoft Word. The task, which is writing in this case, remains unchanged, but the tools employed differ. This level of technology integration primarily focuses on replicating traditional processes with digital alternatives, maintaining the same functionality while benefiting from the advantages of modern tools.

Augmentation is when technology acts as a direct tool substitute that adds functional improvement to the activity.  For example, tools like Google Docs offer more than just replacing traditional document writing and saving. With features like automatic saving, syncing, and cloud sharing, Google Docs provides added functionality. These enhancements eliminate manual actions, ensuring continuous saving, device synchronization, and real-time sharing. This shift in substitution mentality brings increased efficiency and convenience compared to the previous level.

At this level, technology is employed to drive effective utilization by redesigning task components and transforming students' learning experiences. An illustrative example is the use of the commenting service in Google Docs, which enables collaboration and feedback sharing on a given task. Rather than simply substituting tools, this level focuses on leveraging technology to reshape and enhance various aspects of the learning process, fostering collaboration, and facilitating meaningful interactions.

In Bloom's Revised Taxonomy pyramid, this level corresponds to synthesis and evaluation, representing the highest order thinking skills. Redefinition entails using technology to create entirely new tasks. For instance, students can connect with a global classroom, write narratives of a historical event, and utilize chat, comments, and voice features to discuss and analyze differences. This transformative use of technology fosters collaborative and interactive learning experiences beyond traditional boundaries.