Technology Assessments

It is necessary, in our changing World, to continue to grow in our technology leadership and to infuse our teaching with technology skills.  How do we know which areas of technology we are lacking and in need of instruction?  We must have varied assessments to help guide us in our transformation.  With funding at risk, it is understandable we need a reporting requirement, and self-assessments seem to be the most productive method.

The annual self-assessment, STaR Chart, is one avenue to assess our school’s/district’s technology needs.  Does it work?  Teachers have become more aware of the change in focus towards technology as they complete the required assessment.  The over the past three years there has been an overall positive growth change for Bay Elementary, in Seabrook, Texas.  The teachers understand the need for growth and learning in the technology arena.  Although, Bay has consistently scored at the Advanced Technology level, the assessment gives enough information to give a focus for growth and instruction.  

The information appears to be accurate as the lowest scoring area was in Educator Preparation, and many steps have been taken to provide more technology learning opportunities this past year mandated by the district.  According to the data, we are still in need of more choices for online learning and instruction.  This information is also correct according to our workshops offered in CCISD.  I do believe the self-assessment survey works, but just as easily might not; depending on how honest the individual is when completing the questionnaire.  Also, questions, in the survey, must be written carefully as to be easily understandable to all participants.  The STaR seems to be pretty straightforward without alienating those who are not so computer literate.

I believe any self-assessment helps not only the district, but also the individual learner understand their strengths and weaknesses.  In other words, it helps us to know what we don’t know.  In week one, I took the Technology Technology Literacy Self-Assessment, and the LoTi Digital Age Survey.  As a result of both tools, I am more aware of my deficiencies and where my concentration should be in learning.  I was honest in my answers, which helps me to grow as a learner. 

Do assessments and surveys work?  In my opinion, yes, but only if the participants work at being honest with them, as well.