Here’s a nice article about the SAMR model.  It is used in our board to see how the technology we use transforms learning.

http://www.maggiehosmcgrane.com/2010/03/samr-model.html

 

I have used several type of technology in my classes.  This year, I have used two programs that are quite high on the SAMR model: blogging with Kidblog and coding using Hopscotch.  The way we used it in class, both are at the REDEFINITION level.

At the substitution level, blogging can be used to type the paragraph that was written in class.  At the augmentation level, we can add the pictures taken during  our field trips and continue writing about them.  At the Modification level, we start interacting with students in our class.  Each student comment on the work of other students, make connections and/or ask questions.  At the redefinition level, we have students travelling in other countries during school time continuing to participate in class through their blog and sharing their experiences with the students in the classroom.  A further redefinition could be to collaborate with other classes.  Kidblog has enormous possibilities as it models what many scientists, teachers, reporters do.  They exchange information with others and it allows to be critically learning from others since the commenting on other’s blogs requires having a critical view while learning from the comments others make also requires a critical view.

Hopscotch also is at the REDEFINITION level.  It allows developing math skills in a new way, easy expression for English Language Learners or French Language Learners, it allows doing art in a completely different way and learning to read and write code, a skill highly required in order to get a job later, after graduation.