Technology is a tool, not a learning outcome. It shouldn’t be where lesson planning begins, instead, it should be only added if the technology is going to enhance and improve the learning. One way teachers can ensure their lessons have effective technology integration is by using the SAMR model. SAMR refers to levels of technology integration as Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. This framework, created by Dr. Ruben Puentedura, was intended to build a consensus across grade levels and subjects providing a common language that describes technology integration (SAMR Model: A Practical Guide for K-12 Classroom Technology Integration 2021).

There are other educational technology researchers working on evaluation formats. The Technology Integration Matrix (TIM), TPACK framework, ISTE Standards, as well as links to Bloom's Taxonomy have all been compared in relation to SAMR (Winkelman, 2020). All have their strong points, but for this study the focus remains on SAMR. Substitution and Augmentation are often referenced as the enhancement stage, while Modification and Redefinition are the transformation stage. Not every lesson has to include technology and there are times that Substitution and Augmentation are adequate (EdTech Classroom, 2021).

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