Technology Literacy

The U.S. Department of Education (1996) defines technology literacy as "computer skills and the ability to use computers and other technology to improve learning, productivity, and performance." It lists four goals related to technology literacy that ensure all students and teachers have equitable access to and effective use of technology:

• "All teachers in the nation will have the training and support they need to help students learn using computers and the information superhighway."

• "All teachers and students will have modern multimedia computers in their classrooms."

• "Every classroom will be connected to the information superhighway."

• "Effective software and on-line learning resources will be an integral part of every school's curriculum."

For further information, refer to the following sources:

• Getting America's Students Ready for the 21st Century: Meeting the Technology Literacy Challenge (U.S. Department of Education, 1996)

• Expanding the Definition of Technological Literacy in Schools (Fanning, 1996)

• Realizing the Promise of Technology in America's Schools (Kennedy, 1996)

• Technological Literacy in President Clinton's Call to Action for American Education in the 21st Century (U.S. Department of Education, 1997)

source: http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te4lk7.htm