What is augmentation and modification in a SAMR model?

Explain a simple way and basic language

In the SAMR model, augmentation and modification are two different levels of technology integration in education.

Augmentation refers to using technology to substitute and enhance learning experiences that could be done without technology. It adds some functional improvement to the task, but does not fundamentally change the nature of it. For example, using a word processing program instead of handwriting assignments or using educational apps for practice exercises. In augmentation, technology is used as a direct replacement for traditional tools or methods, but doesn't significantly alter the learning process.

On the other hand, modification goes beyond enhancement and involves redesigning tasks or creating new ones that were previously inconceivable without technology. It allows for significant task transformations and can lead to new learning experiences that go beyond what was possible before. For instance, using collaborative documents and multimedia presentations to foster teamwork and creativity among students or using simulations and virtual reality to immerse students in authentic and interactive learning environments. Modification involves taking advantage of technology to fundamentally change how learning occurs.

In simpler terms, augmentation is when technology is used to improve an existing task, while modification is when technology is used to transform and create new tasks that were not possible without it.