Technology assessments are snapshots of the knowledge and capabilities of teachers and students in the area of digital tools. In order to better serve the needs of each group, data is needed to give a foundation to consider the specific need. Texas has the benefit of a technology assessment tool, Texas STaR Chart that is aligned with the Long Range Plan for Technology, 2006-2007.
The result of an assessment, such as the Texas Teacher STaR Chart, delivers information to make better decisions for the district. If evaluated closely, by individual teacher, the comprehension of the digital world can be discovered. When looking at this tool, several questions must be asked. What was the teacher’s frame of mind when completing the assessment? Did the teacher understand what was being assessed and how it could better his/her skills or availability of digital tools? Do the veteran teachers understand the terminology being used in the assessment? If the answer to these questions is an optimistic realm, than an accurate process to collect data has occurred. However, if the answer is in the pessimistic realm uncovers itself, then better communication or attitudes need to be assessed before accurate information can be gathered.
Student technology assessment can help education in three areas: accountability data, identify student strength & weaknesses, and discover the best digital tools for classroom teaching strategies. An educator could benefit greatly from accurate testing results.
The learner centered environment could become a reality for school districts with accurate results. It should be emphasized to both groups the importance of the assessment to better the learning environment by enhancing it with digital tools.
Texas Education Agency, Instructional Materials and Educational Technology Division. (2006). The star chart. Retrieved from http://www.tea.state.tx.us/starchart
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