Eclectic Technology

There are many models one can look to when integrating technology into the curriculum and one that is often spoken about is SAMR. SAMR allows teachers to learn how to move from enhancing curriculum to transforming curriculum.

Think of climbing a ladder.

The bottom rung of the ladder would be substitution.

The second step would be modification.

The third step would be augmentation.

The fourth step would be redefinition.

The video takes an example and shows how it changes as it moves up the ladder.

There are also a number of reflection questions provided that may help you understand how to evaluate each of the areas and move your students to use more high order thinking skills (HOTS) as well as impact student achievement.

There are many videos available that explain SAMR. This one does an excellent job and provides some extra tips...and it in just over 4 minutes in length!

The SAMR model is one tool to use. The letters stand for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification. Redefinition. This post explores how you can use the SAMR model in the classroom, with the focus on the US constitution and connect the project to Common Core. At each step of the SAMR ladder Susan Oxnevad provides "Dr. Puentedura’ Questions and Transitions for guidance." (Dr. Puentedura is the creator of the SAMR model). 

The SAMR model is a great tool to use with teachers new to technology. It provides a scaffolding that will assist them as they gain new technology skills. This lesson provides a great overview and could be modified for lessons in other disciplines.

This post provides a wide range of resources that discuss SAMR, a model that looks at how technology may impact education and transform the classroom as the technology moves from being a direct tool substitute with with no real change to augmentation, where there is some functional improvement to modification providing redesign opportunities to redefinition, moving to new ways to accomplish new tasks. Learn more about SAMR in this post which includes a talk that Dr. Ruben presented at an iPad conference and many other resources that provide additional information about SAMR.

If you are considering using the SAMR model (Substitution, Augmentation, Modificaion, Redefinition) you might want to check out this interactive graphic that provides a great visual as well as links to many great resources. Susan Oxnevad notes "The circle at each level targets research, writing and digital citizenship."