COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

P.O. BOX 2120

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23218-2120

SUPTS. MEMO NO. 136

July 8, 2005

INFORMATIONAL

TO:	Division Superintendents
FROM:	Jo Lynne DeMary Superintendent of Public Instruction
SUBJECT:	Computer Technology Standards of Learning for Grades K-12

The Board of Education at its meeting on June 22, 2005, adopted Computer/Technology Standards for public schools. The standards can be found at http://www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/Superintendent/Sols/home.shtml

The standards identify technology skills and competencies that students in grades K-12 should exhibit to enhance current learning opportunities and to prepare for future technological applications in college and the workplace.

The standards cover foundation technology skills and competencies for students that include the following:

• Basic Operations and Concepts
• Social and Ethical Issues
• Technology Productivity Tools
• Technology Communication Tools
• Technology Research Tools
• Technology Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Tools

The standards are organized into four grade groups: K-2, 3-5, 6-8, and 9-12. This arrangement provides greater opportunity for students to develop, reinforce, and amplify their skills. Computer/technology proficiency is not an end in itself, but lays the foundation for continuous learning. The focus is on learning using technology rather than learning about technology.

The staff of the Office of Educational Technology will provide, upon request, technical assistance to school divisions in developing strategies for integrating the standards into teaching and learning.

Please contact Ms. Charlie Makela, school library media and research services specialist at 804-786-9412 or mailto:charlie.makela@doe.virginia.gov for additional information about the Computer/Technology Standards.

JLD/CM/fc