Elementary Technology Literacy Guide (PDF) - K12 - Plano ISD ...

Introduction
The goal of the elementary technology literacy program is to provide students with
technology skills necessary for becoming productive citizens in an increasingly
technological world. According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of
Educational Technology, technology is an integral part of our students’ future. Today’s
classroom requires that students learn to operate computers and their peripherals, and
use software applications both as instructional aides and production tools. An effective
technology curriculum introduces skills appropriate for the student’s physical and
conceptual development that spirals from kindergarten through grade five.
Keyboarding is the term used today to refer to touch-typing, special key functions, use
of the mouse, and numerical operations. Students learn proper key-reaching
techniques to build speed and accuracy. These keyboarding skills provide the student
with knowledge of correct finger placement and the choice of an automatic response
when typing on a keyboard or using other input devices, enabling the efficient use of
computers and related equipment.
Technology competency skills are a set of abilities which enables students to use
electronic tools effectively and efficiently. Acquisition of these skills enables students to
make informed decisions about technologies and their applications. Technologies may
include multimedia software, CD-ROM, laserdisc, digital camera, video camera, Internet
software application, scanner, VCR, bar code reader, calculator, and tape recorder.
Students select technology appropriate for the task, use it efficiently, evaluate results,
and communicate information in different formats.
This curriculum guide includes elementary keyboarding standards and other technology
competencies. To ensure ethical use of these standards, this guide also includes the
Plano Independent School District Acceptable Use Guidelines for Technology
Resources.
Plano ISD Elementary Technology Literacy Guide Page 3