COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

P.O. BOX 2120

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23218-2120

SUPTS. MEMO NO. 66

April 1, 2005

INFORMATIONAL

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

The Board of Education at its March 2005 meeting approved for distribution the proposed Computer/Technology Standards of Learning for Grades K-12. A public hearing will be conducted at the May 25, 2005, meeting. The Department of Education invites you to review and provide comments on the proposed standards. Comments should be emailed to 95CTSOL@doe.virginia.gov

A copy of the proposed standards is available at http://www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/Technology/proposedSOL-05.pdf

The proposed standards of learning for grades K-12 identify and define the progressive development of essential knowledge and skills necessary for students to access, evaluate, and use and create information using technology in five areas: Basic Operations and Concepts, Social, Ethical, and Human Issues, Technology Research Tools, Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Tools, and Technology Communication Tools. The standards provide a framework for technology literacy. The benchmarks demonstrate a progression from physical manipulation skills for the use of technology, to intellectual skills necessary for information use, to skills and attitudes for learning independently, and finally to the skills needed for working responsibly and productively within groups.

The Computer/Technology Standards of Learning for Grades K-12 involve the development of practical skills over time with tasks becoming progressively more complex. Computer/technology proficiency is not an end in itself but lays a foundation for lifelong learning. The focus is on learning to use technology rather than learning about technology. To become technologically proficient, the student must develop the skills through integrated activities in all content areas K-12, rather than through one specific course. These skills are necessary for all students and should be introduced and refined collaboratively by all K-12 teachers as an integral part of the learning process.

If additional information is needed concerning the proposed standards, please contact Charlie Makela, Charlie.Makela@doe.virginia.gov, school library media and research services specialist, at (804) 786-9412.

JLD/CBM/fmc