BLOG POST#4

SAMR is the abbreviation of the four words: substitution, augmentation, modification and redefinition. It is more like a process of media improvement. At first, the media is used merely as a tool to replace the traditional one. Then, with the advancement of technology or the improvement of using approaches, the media can realize more function and reached the second and third level of augmentation and modification. However, when it comes to the final stage, the media can totally change the content of tasks and itself can become part of the task.

Take my experience in some other courses as examples. I have once taken part in an online course where the teacher ask students to write the long-text answers on the forum. In this stage the assignment is only a substitution. However, the teacher also require every student to reply to the answers of other students to analyze and evaluate their answers. At this time, the content of the task has been changed. It is not just about knowing the answers; it is about communication, exchange of ideas and thoughts, interaction, and inspiration. Students can learn much more from the later process.

There is another course where the instructor asks the students to make a final project in any available forms: videos, pictures, drawings or texts. The theme of the project is to analyze the influence of popular culture. I chose to make a video and in the process of creating I have not only sorted through the content and meaning of my video but also realized the power of multimedia — how the form of video itself as popular culture affects the interaction between me and my audience. I think that is an excellent application of SAMR by the instructor.

I’m particularly interested in hands on activity this week! I always want to learn an editing course like this. I feel a sense of accomplishment after I finish editing the video! I think we can use it in our study, work and life in the future. Recently, I am learning how to shoot and edit Tik-tok, which helps me a lot!