An example of a surface-level change (Substitution) would be to use an online word processor rather than a typewriter to format a document. In this example, the students' task is unchanged, but one technology is substituted for another. A deeper change (Redefinition) would be to have a group of students collaboratively produce a website including multi-media elements. In this case, the technology (online collaborative tools) allows students to do things in a completely novel way, one that is not possible without the technological tools.
As you modify your instructional tasks, keep this model in mind. This doesn't mean that every single one of your activities needs to be completely redefined. But if all you are using is Substitution of one technology for another, perhaps you want to consider how to move your activities upward in this hierarchy, toward Modification and Redefinition.
For more information about the SAMR model, you can follow Dr. Puentadora's blog at www.hippasus.com/rrpweblog/.
