Is Testing for Technology Skills Necessary?

     Are teachers and students being tested too much? In Texas, teachers are self- assessed with the School Technology and Readiness Assessment (STaR Chart) to provide teachers with an overall consensus of how their campus feels they are progressing in the area of technology. Students are also measured for their understanding of the TEKS for Technology Applications.

     But, is this testing necessary? Teachers’ technology leadership knowledge and skills as well as students knowledge and skills are based on standards. The world and technology is constantly changing. Standards must be periodically, systematically, and comprehensively updated. This takes time and resources that local and state education agencies have little of. With these changes, assessment instruments will need to be updated as well; further straining budgets and stakeholders’ constitutions.

     What choice do we have? Technology has changed the planet. In our fast paced world where technology savvy societies are leading the way economically and educationally, educational stakeholders must be diligently paying attention. Once, the preferred word processor was a typewriter. Today word processors are mobile laptops and iPads. Teachers and students need to know their technology strengths and weaknesses. For teachers who are planning professional development and lesson plans, assessments are essential if students are to benefit from their pedagogical skills. Many students love technology, but often may not be aware of the particular skills needed to be successful in real world environments. Teachers must teach and assess and plan with an eye on changes in the culture of technology and changes in standards.