Technology Integration

No Child Left Behind requires that all students become "technology literate" by the end of eighth grade. Some districts have grade level projects while others test their students to assess their technology competencies. My district has chosen to do grade level projects to assess competency yet I don't feel that these are entirely objective. I would like to try some sort of written assessment of technology competencies. How do other districts tackle this issue? Is there "a best way" to achieve this technology literacy?

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Tracy Tishion's picture
Submitted by Tracy Tishion Mimio Master Mimio Moderators Mimio Site Manager Mimio Certified Trainer on Jun. 22, 2009

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Technology Integration - Get Organized

I teach technology to K – 5th grade students at a public school in Florida. For years we used the ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) standards to guide our curriculum and instruction. We all felt the pressure to do a better job teaching technology using a clear, concise and consistent teaching method. To that end our district decided to develop a curriculum guide complete with Grade Level Standards and Indicators, Progress Monitoring Standards, An Instructional Resource Curriculum Pacing Guide and Grade Level Unit plans.
This was a daunting task to say the least, however, with the efforts of many teachers, our Instructional Technology Specialists and with the support of our District leadership we have developed a curriculum specifically for technology instruction and the integration of technology into the classroom.
I would encourage all schools/districts to develop a similar curriculum guide… it’s the best way to do our best for our students.

  • Posted:
    Feb. 11, 2012
holtri
Posted by
Rich Holt
Downloads: 97

Assessing Students

I teach Technology in a K-8 Catholic School. We are also interested in creating assessments for our students and have begun to do so. My advise to your district is this: Start slow & don't reinvent the wheel! For example, last year I chose to grades to asess, 3rd and 6th. I piggy-backed off of asessments that they were already doing in the core classroom so that the core teachers and I could collaborate. Our third graders were doing a writing asessment, so I used that opportunity to asess their Word Processing skills. Our sixth graders were working on an asessment involving an invention project. I used this oppotunity to have them demonstrate their presentation skills using Powerpoint, Animoto and Windows Movie Maker. I will slowly begin to add grade levels until we have everyone covered!

  • Posted:
    Sep. 18, 2011
jmaherstpats
Posted by
Jennifer Maher
Downloads: 25

Assessment

I like the idea of using already assigned activities to assess their technology skills. It gives meaning to the activity and assesses two areas of content with one project. Thanks for the idea.

  • Posted:
    Nov. 18, 2011
tina.cooper
Posted by
tina.cooper
Downloads: 6

Technology in the Classroom

Great topic and excellent questions, I'm not a teacher, I work for a mimio re-seller. My mother is an elementary school principal south of the Atlanta area. I'm not sure if her district has projects or tests in place to assess technology competency of students, this will be great dialogue to have with her. I will find out and correspond.

  • Posted:
    Sep. 18, 2011
bherron
Posted by
bherron
Downloads: 49

Lot of classes and less time

I teach K-8 Technology at a Private school. I think there is a lot of do and too little time. There is a lot of expectation from the technology teacher in terms of teaching and as well as attending to teachers who have tech related to issues.
I think the 45 minute per week is too less of a time for a class. Most of the time it takes weeks to complete a project and students llose interest. I introduce keyboarding, Word, excel, ppt, paint, kidpix, printshop internet research by end of grade 6 and 6-8 work on more application related skills like animoto, web surveys, creating movies, etc. One of the biggest problems I find is that students saying they have been at the computers for a long time and are familiar with it, while all they are good at is pointing and clicking (without thinking)

  • Posted:
    May. 13, 2011
sana11
Posted by
sana11
Downloads: 27

Technologically Literate

In private school, not under the state standards, we have to decide what our standards will be. The benefit is that we can remove ourselves from state standards that are not specific or hold our students to a higher standard and take the time to get them to that level. The hard part is do decide what each kid should know and by what time, so that they can be prepared for they next level. I guess you have to start with Office equivilent programs and the functions of the computer to accomplish those goals and then go from there.

  • Posted:
    Mar. 28, 2011
mister_christy
Posted by
Kevin Christy
Downloads: 28

Technology Literate by the end of 8th gade

We started giving a test in May to our 8th graders. Since there were no real criteria given on how or what to use for testing, we chose the Unit 1 Test in the Glencoe TechConnect webiste. However, I don't think this has been a fair indication as to what our students know or don't know because our technology is project based. In the years past, we only had 2 functional computer labs where all classes had to share. Some teachers would always sign up for the lab and their were others who never had the time. I hope that is going to change this year. We moved into our new middle school building in August and provided laptops to the academic classrooms. I am anxious to see how the students do on the literacy test in May with more access to computers this year.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 31, 2010
pchoate
Posted by
Pam Choate
Downloads: 230

Technology Literacy

Your district seems very determined to help students improve technology literacy and it is very important to start "somewhere." Are you involving parents at all to inform them what they can do to help? Teachers certainly have a need to be technologically literate for the sake of their students, but it seems just as critical for parents to be involved. What would you like to see parents do to help in this area?

  • Posted:
    Nov. 3, 2010
danbeverage
Posted by
danbeverage
Downloads: 48

We similar to you use

We similar to you use projects to train the students to be proficent. We start in 1st grade with basice word skills nad move through 7th grade with higher end web publishing and word, excel and powerpoint skills. We have all the work then stored in folders at District Office. I know there is also some good companies out there like elearning and infosourcesolutions that provide online trainings as well. Which is something I am looking intofor next year for my teachers when we move to a new office suite

  • Posted:
    Oct. 29, 2010
wwitkowsky
Posted by
wwitkowsky
Downloads: 21

Time

Our county has dedicated at least 2 technical people to each school. 1 is a certified teacher and the other is a technician. The system works great. As the Local School Technology Coordinator, I work with teachers to provide training on any software that comes down the pike. I also work with teachers and classes on projects and lessons they want to do, but may not have the enough knowledge about the software they want to use. Also any technology adopted with a curriculum falls under my job to help inform parents about what is available for them. The parent component has just come on scene in our county. Students and parents now have are textbooks available to them online. This is great and the parents are very excited about this. No more driving up to school to get Jonny's math book. I see our teachers by grade level at least one a month to introduce new software or review projects for upcoming curriculum. A dedicated once a month is great, but with the school year… for some teachers that only come to required technology meeting only get about 6 hours of technology. In the direction we are headed… that isn’t nearly enough.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 29, 2010
bmurrath
Posted by
Belinda Murrath
Downloads: 156

Technology Intergration

Lack of time is my biggest complaint. I need more time to learn all of the new techniques that technology has to offer. Also, I have a 30 minute computer block for our 1st grade technology lessons. Our student technology proficiencies are taught through Learning.com and student projects. In 1st grade we just have time to hit the very basics of technology.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 27, 2010
sbenson
Posted by
sbenson
Downloads: 102

Technology Intergration

I teach first grade and I am one of the Lead Technology teachers for my campus. Several years ago we formed a Technology committee that developed a Student Profeiciencies booklet for each grade level. Time is a real problem for us too. Not only time but also many teachers need training on technology as well as the students. Most of the newer teachers are very well trained in technology but that is not so for many of the experienced teachers. This year our Technology Director was able to build some early release days into our calendar that are strickly for technology training. This really seems to be working well many of the teachers have given great positive feed back.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 27, 2010
mimitchell
Posted by
mimitchell
Downloads: 55

Technology Integration

I think it is great that your Technology Director is helping to train the teachers in your school using early release days. Our district has those for training, but they are not delicated to technology training. I would love it if they were!

  • Posted:
    Feb. 9, 2012
pjrineha2006
Posted by
pjrineha2006
Downloads: 123

21st Century Skills

I fall right in the middle because I am a technology coordinator for K-4 as well as a Computer Literacy for 5-7; and this is where it gets more confusing. Under the directives of one person I am to collaborate with the classroom teachers in their "thematic units" to teach the skills through project based lessons. However, on the other hand I know that through projects; skills can be learned but not to the extent as if the skills were taught in a process, and having the project be the assessment; which will display the skills mastered.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 14, 2010
bbudhu
Posted by
bbudhu
Downloads: 22

Technology Integration

My district just hired computer literacy teachers for the elementary schools. They are resopnsible teaching the foundational skills students are required to have. They follow the state standards. New Jersey completed revised standards use ISTE and Partnership for 21st Century Skills. The state technology sites provides resources to teachers to integrate the standards. Middle and high schools teahcers are required to integrate technolgy by producing artifacts of learning using technology rubrics. Professional development is provided in order to obtain district goals. Not sure there is a best way to achieve technology literacy. I do believe that technolgy literacy should use the buliding block model and application of these skills should be demostrated at each level.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 11, 2010
LEpps53
Posted by
Linda Epps
Downloads: 67

technology skills

I am a technology facilitator for my campus and helped administer the technology test that was given to all 5th graders in my district and I have to say that I was blown away by the level of questions that were asked. The competency level was pretty high regarding different levels of technology skills. I teach in Texas so by the end of 8th grade most of our students should be proficient in basic technology skills. I think our integration of technology needs to continue to be high but I also realize that some districts may not have this capability of integration. This continues to be a struggle for many low socio economic districts. We are very fortunate to have a variety of technology integration in my district.

  • Posted:
    Jun. 29, 2010
lackeym
Posted by
Martha Lackey
Downloads: 263

technology

I think it depends on how your district defines literate. Is that using a keyboard, Power Points, Word, or programming. I teach alternative education and part of my curriculum is cyber safety and the basic skill of Office. Most of my student do not have a computer in the home so they start out behind everyone else. I give both written exam and a presentation grades.

  • Posted:
    May. 2, 2010
pgeorge
Posted by
pgeorge
Downloads: 280

What grades are involved in

What grades are involved in this? Our school district tests in eighth grade. If a student doesn't pass, then they are required to take computer classes upon entering ninth grade. Our school district has taught and encouraged integration for years. But, it amazes me that new teachers fresh out of college don't integrate technology. It still seems to remain something that is taught instead of being a resource. Instead of teaching your lesson the same old way, why not use technology? It should be the first thing thought of in this day and age. Being the technology person at my school and "old" myself it still bewilders me how teachers have to be made to use technology. I am not saying that there aren't any that don't use it, but they are definitely in the minority. Most teachers that use technology are "made" to use it. That is why I am pusing for more minios in my school. As of now we only have five and we need more. But, I get discouraged, as there is only so much that I can do. Every teacher in my school has a projector, laptop, document camera, desktop computer and four classroom computers. We also have a set of student laptops available for their use.

  • Posted:
    Feb. 6, 2010
donna.bens
Posted by
donna.bens
Downloads: 111

Technology Integration

We have recently formed a technology advisory committee in our district. We will be developing an instruction technology plan for our teachers to follow. Though many decision have yet to be made, there is much discussion about project based learning. However, I do not think other forms of assessments will be completely removed from the plan. The instructional technology coach will be responsible for working with the teachers to insure integration of technology. I hope this helps our teachers feel more comfortable using technology daily instruction and learning.

  • Posted:
    Feb. 13, 2010
lahopkins
Posted by
Leigh Ann Hopkins
Downloads: 187

Technology Integration..

Are these technology projects something that is done in the classroom or at home with parent supervision? I would think that if the projects are being taken home it may not be the best way to assess the STUDENTS abilities since there would be more opportunity for the parent(s) to assist. Is there an opportunity to do a written assessment and have those that pass be exempt from that grade level technology project?

  • Posted:
    Jan. 19, 2010
tara113
Posted by
Tara
Downloads: 88

Technology Integration

These are projects done entirely at school in our computer labs, with the exception of data collection, when needed and where appropriate. Students even have the opportunity to remain after school, many times with their teacher who assigned the project, to work at their own pace on completing the project. To answer your other question, it would be no, not at this time do we have written assessments. That is one reason why I'd like to go to option just as you have stated.

  • Posted:
    Jan. 19, 2010
Tracy Tishion
Posted by
Tracy Tishion
Downloads: 573

Technology Integration..

Are these technology projects something that is done in the classroom or at home with parent supervision? I would think that if the projects are being taken home it may not be the best way to assess the STUDENTS abilities since there would be more opportunity for the parent(s) to assist. Is there an opportunity to do a written assessment and have those that pass be exempt from that grade level technology project?

  • Posted:
    Jan. 19, 2010
tara113
Posted by
Tara
Downloads: 88

Technology INtegration

In our district we are constantly looking at ways to integrate technology. I find the problem to be a time factor. Teaching technology is great and my students love it, but time becomes a factor. Another factor is how to stay upon the ever changing technology and to teach students how to transfer skills from one technology to another. My students are not afraid to venture out in vidoe games, but put in a word program and they have a hard time using the tools they have to solve their own problems.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 10, 2009
dianesande
Posted by
Diane Sande
Downloads: 165

Technology Integration

Here in the Caribbean, our teachers echo the same sentiments. The benefits to both teachers and learners have been established however time is always a constraint. As it relates to keeping up with the technology, a multi faceted approach may work here. Day-to-day activities such as reading technology news on BBC and CNN, frequent visits to MimioConnecr and similar discussion boards help in the short term. In the long term, training events such as courses, seminars, workshops and conferences is the way to go.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 24, 2010
Howard.Campbell
Posted by
Howard.Campbell
Downloads: 6

Tech Integration

I am having the same issues with time. I know your comment is on how you dont have the time to use technology in the classroom but I have the problem of not having the time to properly train staff on how to use new technology. Teachers have said on multiple occasions they would like to know how to use technology in their classroom but when training is offered, other things come up and they are not able to attend.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 15, 2010
joel kilgus
Posted by
Joel Kilgus
Downloads: 30

Tech Integration

Time seems to be our worst enemy! It is quite difficult to schedule a training time that works best for everyone. I know from being a former teacher myself how precious a teacher's extra time is. The desire to learn something new is there, yet, like you said, other things come up. I still have teachers who aren't using the Mimio to it's fullest capability, but training them on how to has become a challenge.

  • Posted:
    Oct. 15, 2010
smayo
Posted by
smayo
Downloads: 77

Reply to Technology Integration

Hi Tracy,

Our district is doing GTE's per grade level (guaranteed technology experiences) where every student in that grade level will have the same technology experience. These experiences will be in the form of projects and activities. Our 8th graders are using the free Simple Assessment pre and post test so we can see their weaknesses and strengths. I would also love to hear what others are doing.

  • Posted:
    Jun. 23, 2009
lynnreedy
Posted by
Lynn Reedy
Downloads: 151

Technology Integration

A couple of years ago I worked at a private school that was certifying their middle school students with an ICDL (International Computer Driving License). There were 7 or 8 modules that were explicitly taught in the computer lab. Students learned basic to intermediate skills in all of MS Office products, Internet skills (searching, safety, etc.), and Computer Basics. It was a comprehensive course, however, it did have a small fee, which means many public schools would probably find it hard to adopt.

  • Posted:
    Apr. 18, 2010
doylek1
Posted by
Kate Doyle
Downloads: 88

Integrating Technology

Hi. We, in the state of WV, are using a curriculum by SchoolKit entitled techSteps. It is a K-8 statewide curriculum to develop technology skills and the curriculum drives the use of the product, so it is directly correlated to our Content Standards and objectives. The neat thing is that it enables us as teachers to "teach using technology" and our students "learn using technology!" And as students complete their projects, teachers score the rubrics online which not only provides percentage scores for the teacher, but also provides the state with authentic assessment to address federal mandates. It is really nice. And we use our interactive whiteboards throughout the instruction!

  • Posted:
    Oct. 14, 2009
barbiea
Posted by
barbiea
Downloads: 70

Integrating Technology in the Science Classroom

I like your state's commitment to K-8 technology standards. In Texas we have standards as well for technology, but the teachers are so focused on their content curriculum that they are overwhelmed on how to integrate these standards into their lessons. At this time I am learning Mimio in order to model in my presentations with science teachers on how to use an interactive lessons to teach academic vocabulary and content rather than lecture or assign students to create PPT's. With 21st century skills students need to be able to communicate, collaborate, critically think, and creative. Technology tools support the development of these skills.

  • Posted:
    Mar. 27, 2011
wfleming
Posted by
Wanda Fleming
Downloads: 35

I would like to know more

I would like to know more about this to share with our District Technology Assessment Coordinator. Right now we have developed our own Technology Curriculum that lines up with our state test (TAKS).

  • Posted:
    Oct. 12, 2009
rbourgeois
Posted by
Rhonda Bourgeois
Downloads: 10

GTE's

Great idea! Did you make up your GTE's or any idea where might I find some?

  • Posted:
    Oct. 12, 2009
btaylor
Posted by
btaylor
Downloads: 4

Technology Integration

I teach K-5 Technology/Productivity as a special. I know that I am helping the teachers by introducing the students to many of the programs they will use with the classroom teacher. I do not have state standards so I have followed the ISTE standards. Our district has also come up with plans that follow these standards. Just look ISTE or NETs up on your web browser.

  • Posted:
    Mar. 24, 2010
seknowlton
Posted by
seknowlton
Downloads: 49

GTE's

I love this idea. Do you mind if I use this for teachers that I am teaching Mimio to?

  • Posted:
    Oct. 11, 2009
kirklands
Posted by
kirklands
Downloads: 265

Great Work!!! I was looking

Great Work!!! I was looking for this information.

ringing in ear

  • Posted:
    Apr. 2, 2011
Laquetta Watson
Posted by
Laquetta Watson
Downloads: 0

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