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Macro-Design

SAMR Model

The SAMR Model is a four-tiered framework used to assess and guide the integration of technology into learning experiences. It categorizes technology use into two distinct stages: Enhancement (Substitution and Augmentation) and Transformation (Modification and Redefinition).

4 phasesMacro-Design
When to Use This Framework

When you need to design a complete learning experience from scratch

You're planning a workshop, training, or learning session and need a proven structure to organize your content and activities.

This framework is most effective during the digital transformation of a curriculum, when selecting new educational technology tools, or when auditing the effectiveness of current technology use in a learning environment.

The 4 Steps
Follow this sequence to apply SAMR Model
1

Substitution

2

Augmentation

3

Modification

4

Redefinition

What You'll Achieve

Ensures your session has clear goals, logical flow, and measurable outcomes.

Instructional designers can use SAMR as a rubric to evaluate existing lesson plans and identify opportunities to move from simple digital replacement to transformative learning experiences. Facilitators can use it to challenge learners to use technology for tasks that were previously inconceivable without digital tools.

Practical Tips
How to get the most out of this framework
  • 1
    Start by defining what success looks like at the end
  • 2
    Work backwards from outcomes to activities
  • 3
    Build in checkpoints to verify learning
  • 4
    Allow time for practice and application
Best For
  • Technology integration
  • Digital pedagogy
  • Curriculum redesign
  • EdTech evaluation
Key Principles
  • Enhancement vs. Transformation: Distinguishing between technology that improves a task and technology that fundamentally changes it.
  • Functional Improvement: Moving beyond direct substitution to leverage specific digital features that add value.
  • Task Redesign: Using technology to significantly alter the nature and scope of the learning activity.
  • Creation of New Tasks: Aiming for the 'Redefinition' stage where technology allows for learning activities that were impossible in an analog format.
Watch Out For
  • Higher levels are not always superior; the level of integration should align with the specific learning objectives.
  • The model focuses on the task and the learner's experience rather than the specific features of the hardware or software.
  • Moving to 'Transformation' levels often requires a shift in teaching philosophy, not just a change in tools.
Related Frameworks
Other Macro-Design frameworks you might find useful
70:20:10 ModelBalance experiential, social, and formal learning
Kepner-Tregoe (KT) Rational ProcessA systematic, data-driven methodology for objective decision-making and root cause analysis. It provides a structured language and set of tools to decouple emotion from complex organizational challenges, ensuring teams reach evidence-based conclusions.
Design ThinkingDesign Thinking is a human-centered, iterative problem-solving methodology. It focuses on understanding user needs, challenging assumptions, and creating innovative solutions through prototyping and testing.