SAMR is an invaluable framework which details how we can integrate technology through 4 levels:
- Substitution
- Augmentation
- Modification
- Redefinition
Interserv regularly makes use of this framework to assist our clients. Before delving further into the specifics, let’s first refresh ourselves on the basics of this model.
SAMR offers a roadmap for companies seeking to incorporate technology thoughtfully and effectively. As raised in the above video, the model is traditionally applied in the Learning and Development space however it can actually be used across a wide range of industries. Here are some examples of how Interserv has employed the principles of the model.
Note
The SAMR model is a spectrum, and an approach to a task can span more than one level of the framework. This will be evident in some of the following cases.
Substitution and Augmentation
Audio Articles
Interserv builds and maintains several websites for the Australian Defence Force which are dedicated to Professional Military Education (PME). Examples include The Forge and The Cove which host podcasts that include Audio Articles – that is, educational articles which have been narrated and converted to an audio format for learners to listen to on the go. These audio articles are essentially a substitution to reading the articles. However, they have also “augmented” the original task by introducing an additional element of convenience to learners and increasing engagement by appealing to students who prefer auditory methods of learning.
Digitising Face to Face Training Packs
A key service Interserv provides is digitising content. One of our largest digitisation projects involved the Royal Australian Navy’s Underwater Medicine Clinician Course (UMCC), where we were required to convert 17 face-to-face training packs into engaging eLearning content. At the conclusion of this project, we successfully reshaped all the given lessons into a digital format. This enabled learners to access the material online and consolidate their knowledge via features such as formative quizzes, educational videos and interactive hotspots.
The online modules served as a direct replacement for an in-person classroom environment. They also augmented the original approach by introducing functional improvements such as increased accessibility and flexibility for the UMCC’s learners. In addition, Interserv built in online surveys to help trainers easily track learner feedback and to help improve future iterations of the course.
Interactive Activities
One of The Cove’s educational features is a series called “Know Your Region” (KYR). This is a place where learners can read about different countries, focusing on General Information, Diplomacy, Military, Economy and Hot Topics. Originally, KYR was a webpage containing a list of countries, with hyperlinks dedicated to a certain topic next to each country.
We replaced this page with the KYR GUI - a tool which enabled learners to click on different countries on an interactive map and instantly access the relevant information. This approach not only substituted a static web page with an interactive activity but changed the learning experience by providing an engaging way to learn about each country and fostering greater motivation to explore the Indo-Pacific region. Overall, we transformed a passive activity into an interactive exploration that enriched the learning process.
Modification
Gamification
One of Interserv’s major gamification projects is the Cove 4.0 Update, where we modified The Cove from a platform which simply housed educational resources into a more dynamic experience where users could challenge themselves and take greater ownership of their learning. The update introduced gamification features such as goals, challenges, awards and leaderboards. These items recognised learners' achievements, encouraged friendly competition, and strengthened the sense of community amongst the students.
Redefinition
Collaborative Experiences
Interserv is currently working on client projects intended on redefining educational learning experiences through collaboration. On the horizon are features where students can form teams, share insights, participate in challenges and actively gain achievements together. This is a large step from the original method of learning which students previously participated in, that is, where learning tasks were more of a solo effort. With the upcoming upgrades, students will soon be able to learn through shared experiences and by working towards a common goal. This team-based approach is projected to result in increased motivation, engagement and knowledge retention.
Learning Through Connections
Another feature in the works is an online forum specifically designed for learners to create their own network of digital resources. This project targets a learning task centred on students independently writing educational pieces and submitting them to a website to share with other learners. With the forthcoming upgrade, users will be given a space to share and discuss tips, articles or tutorials for writing educational pieces. The original activity subsequently transforms to a more collaborative effort where users can curate a learning network which allows them to proactively improve their writing skills by interacting with their peers. This approach is a significant step from the original learning method, as it allows users to obtain feedback, learn from, and even teach colleagues during the writing process.
Other Applications
A benefit of the SAMR model is that it isn’t restricted to the Training and Education. Here are two examples where Interserv applied SAMR when assisting clients from other industries.
Augmentation: Transport NSW
Sydney’s bus and rail systems have timetables present at stations and bus shelters. Traditionally, these showed the scheduled times for only one mode of transport. Interserv has worked on projects for Transport NSW to augment certain timetables (most notably around the Sydney CBD) to showcase additional features such as:
- Real time data of multiple transport locations
- Combined timetables for both buses and trains
- A multilingual prototype app to make announcements available in multiple languages
These upgrades augment the original travel experience by adding more functionality for commuters.
Redefinition: Hone
Hone is Australia's leading specialist in agricultural technology for in-field quality measurement. They provide Australian farmers with digital solutions for managing their crops, most notably tools for measuring grain and soil quality. Previously, checking these items would have been cumbersome, as it involved taking physical samples to a lab for testing. Interserv played a significant role in redefining this task and worked with Hone to create an app which connects a measurement device to a farmer’s mobile, tablet or desktop. As a result, farmers are now able to conduct quality checks on the field and obtain results in real time as well as on the go.
Technology for Users
SAMR is a framework which underpins Interserv’s approach to providing innovative technology solutions. We have significant experience in implementing its principles within different industries and for projects of varying scope and scale. Most importantly, we understand that redefining a task isn’t always the most appropriate option, and that integrating technology should always be in a manner that best serves your needs for the context at hand.
