SAMR in the Library
The SAMR model is helpful to guide how technology can be used in the school library setting. Within the model, there are four progressive levels of how technology enhances or transforms student learning: Substitution, Augmentation, Modification and Redefinition. While there are benefits to each level, educators should aim to use technology to transform student learning which means to "create tasks, once unimaginable" without the technology (Puentedura, R. 2014).
Within the library, student learning can be supported by the use of technology at all four of these levels. At the substitution level, the new technology simply replaces another technology but it does not change the task. Students may access an online database or record their research on a virtual document such as a google doc. Moving into Augmentation, technology is still used as a substitute but allows students to access more features or tools. An example in the school library would be having students complete multimedia presentations such as audio recordings, Prezi, videos or infographics.
The school library can support the modification level of the SAMR model by using technology to redefine part of the task. For example, students can collaborate using a shared google document, use google earth to understand geography or landforms, or produce presentations with a variety of multimedia components in place of a standart oral report. Finally, the highest level of the SAMR model is Redefinition, where tasks are created that would not be possible without technology. Some examples include using a platform to connect with other students across the world, or publishing student work online to be viewed by the broader community.
School libraries and teacher librarians play an important role in leading the school community to utilize available technology to achieve transformative learning.
Puentedura, R. (2014). SAMR and Bloom's Taxonomy: Assembling the Puzzle. Common Sense Education.
https://www.commonsense.org/education/articles/samr-and-blooms-taxonomy-assembling-the-puzzle
Hi Rachel,
ReplyDeleteI think SAMR will be a great framework to use in the library. I am particularly drawn to the idea that we can use technology to reshape a task into something entirely new. How do you think the teacher-librarian in particular can introduce SAMR to students and teachers?
Hi Rachel,
ReplyDeleteIt's really interesting to be able to take teaching even further with technology, as you mention for example to connect with other students across the world. I wonder what kind of technology is currently available in your school/learning center?
Thanks for sharing!
-Veronique