What is SAMR?

The SAMR model is a technology

model that was popularized by
Dr. Ruben Puentedura. The
model helps teachers integrate
and elevate technology in the
classroom. The model shows
when technology simply
transforms the lesson and/or
project from paper to digital and
when technology takes the
integration to the enhancement
level and has a new level of
functional improvement to the
lesson and/or project. The goal is to enhance lessons in the classroom at the
highest level.

What is TPACK?

The TPACK model is a framework for

understanding technology integration for
teachers and other education professionals.
The TPACk model has three circles that
represent: Technological Knowledge-The
technology, digital tools, devices, and other
enhancements that you bring to the lesson.
Pedagogical Knowledge-The teaching
knowledge that you bring to the lesson.
Content Knowledge-The information and
learning about your specific content area
brought to the lesson. The goal is to be in the
inner triangle and hitting all elements of the
TPACK model in a lesson.

Classroom Implementation:
Both of the models above are great and can easily be integrated together to create
fantastic lessons. However, one does not need to kill themselves in every lesson to
reach the highest level of both models because honestly, some lessons just arent made
to be redefined but can be enhanced simply through substitution. The key is not to get
stuck in substitution because its flashy and easy or to constantly do redefinition
because there are some basics of education that students still need to know how to do.
These things are why the SAMR and TPACK models are great when used together. The
TPACK model helps you make sure that the information, knowledge, and technology are
well balanced and the SAMR model helps you see where you can push that specific
content to. For example, socrative.com is a great way to do an exit ticket at the end of a
class period or lesson. However, an exit ticket can be done on a piece of paper. This is
an example of substitution and thats okay! Substitution is great for the classroom too.
By doing the exit ticket electronically theres not 83585738 slips of paper to keep up
with and feedback can be given to the students immediately. Another online platform
good for teaching is nearpod.com. Nearpod has some elements that are basic
substitution but nearpod will also allow you to take a science lesson about the Great
Barrier Reef and transport your students to the Reef using Nearpods virtual field trips.
This takes us to the redefinition and modification level while still being balanced on the
TPACK model. Classroom lessons are at their best when both the SAMR and TPACK
model are used to guide the planning process.