Technology Assessments

When looking at technology skills it is important to find out the knowledge and skill base of the educator.  The educator, at the least, will need to know basic computer operations.  The educator should also be proficient in utilizing the internet and its many functions.  This will allow the educator to model acceptable practices when on-line, how to conduct a good search, work in web design programs, etc...  Also, the educator needs to be familiar with Web 2.0 applications.  This will help engage students in collaboration activities such as blogging, on-line polling, media sharing, and creating wikis.  My experience in assessing for technology skills is that most teachers know the basic operations to troubleshoot problems.  We were not familiar with engaging students in relevant learning experiences using technology and we didn't get any feedback on how to engage students.
It is also important to assess students prior knowledge.  Many students are involved with technology to the extent of texting, listening, and downloading music on their phone.  I don't think many take part in blogging or creating wiki pages.  I believe the skill will be easy for them to pick up once given the opportunity.  It is also good to find out what they believe to be reliable sites to obtain information.  I have assigned research projects and received products over the same topic with completely different "factual" information, such as dates in history.  It is important to find out what students know about different digital tools and how they can be used for educational purposes.
I believe that they are many benefits to technology assessments.  It can give districts a baseline measure to begin to improve upon.  Educators and students can have input on what they think is important technology issues need to be addressed.  The assessment can allow for comparison and evaluation of past and present results.  The flipside of assessing technology can reveal the lack of using available technology resources.  Many teachers I have worked with are aware of the resources but feel the time commitment to integrate will be too great.  As a result, districts might cut money in the technology departments because they feel the funds can be better served in other departments
There are pros and cons when assessing but the goal should be to produce students who can function in the 21st Century.  With that in mind, the cons should provide a new challenge for where the district wants to go.