The SAMR Model

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           After watching this video by John Spencer overviewing the SAMR model, my understanding is that the SAMR model is a four level process that results in making technology a part of the learning process. The four levels are as follows:

    S - Substitution

    A - Augmentation

    M - Modification

    R - Redefinition

            Substitution and augmentation are focused on enhancement. Substitution is a direct replacement of old technology with new technology. This is when a student writes a paper on their computer rather than with paper and pencil. Augmentation is a direct replacement of old technology and new technology, but something is elevated about the experience. The example that John Spencer gives is when students use Google Docs to give peer feedback on a paper. 

            Modification and redefinition are focused on transformation. Modification is when a task is redesigned by technology. This is when a student's feedback, like an essay, is submitted in a public format. This could be a blog post or social media post. Redefinition is when tech allows for a completely new task. This is when a student is able to make a multimedia project online. That could include blog posts, social media posts, podcasts, YouTube videos, and more. Usually this stage also involves collaboration from peers or even people outside of the classroom, like when a TikTok duet.

            For my current practicum in education course, a learning objective is "incorporate technologies in teaching practices". Using the SAMR model, I can apply technology in different ways in my music classroom. An example of each stage follows:

Substitution - Providing digital playing tests with software like Make Music Cloud (formally SmartMusic).

Augmentation - Digital sight reading software, like Sight Reading Factory, with peer feedback.

Modification - Collaborative use of digital music notation software or digital playing software, like Noteflight.

Redefinition - Writing music for, directing, and recording music videos using previously stated music software and their school issued devices.

           I think that the SAMR model is a great way to reflect on how you're utilizing technology in the classroom. It really puts technology use into perspective because I feel like I only ever used technology as a substitution when I was in K-12 schooling. With that being said, I also think that sometimes you don't need redefinition. A multimedia project is great and very useful for students to let out their creativity, but not every assignment can be a multimedia project. Sometimes a class is just substituting, and I think that should be okay.

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