As with any skill, assessment is an important component in developing competency. However, just as teachers and students are faced with emphasis placed on high-stakes testing, would it be possible that too much emphasis may be placed on assessing technology skills? Few dispute the necessity for teachers to be proficient in the use and integration of technology in the classroom. Nonetheless, “Several teachers held to the belief that they needed to be “experts,” not just in the operation of technology, but also in its instructional implications and in troubleshooting.” (Burns, Mary. From Compliance to Commitment, p.298) The Texas Long-Range Plan for Technology displays necessary skills for teachers and students. Students need to be nurtured in the use of technology in their classroom activities. Although many students have access to technology, many are overwhelmed and intimidated by such inclusive use of technology in the classroom. Again, it is possible to place too much emphasis on “what” the students’ know, as opposed to “how they know and how they find” what they need. Student assessment of technology skills is necessary, but in my opinion, it must be balanced with the opportunity for exploration.
“Today’s students are technology-savvy, feel strongly about the positive value of technology, and rely upon technology as an essential and preferred component of every aspect of their lives. Today’s students need access to life-changing tools that are available for their use before they walk into a school building.” Long-Range Plan for Technology 2006-2010 (November 2006). P22 http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=5082&menu_id=2147483665
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