NETS for Students

National Education Technology Standards for Students

Traditionally, students and teachers have used computers in the classroom for the purpose of word processing. Students would often handwrite a report or story and then type the paper to hand in for a final copy. In addition, computer class was usually an elective designed to teach students how to create spreadsheets, input information or practice keyboarding. These technology standards, however, reflect upon the importance of integrating technology into classroom instruction practices to help students become critical thinkers and active learners. The traditional approach of relying on textbooks and worksheets is being challenged by these standards. In today’s classrooms, students now have access to digital textbooks that provide videos, pictures, sound clips and web links to enhance research. In addition, students can now use laptops for note taking and chapter outlines.

One of the most important goals stated in the NETS for students is section 5, which focuses on teaching students to become “Digital Citizens”. It is very important that students are taught how to use technology in an appropriate way so that they can enhance their learning experience. Teachers must therefore be trained to provide this type of instruction for their students. Schools must provide teachers with workshops or in-service training sessions so that they can effectively implement these standards in the classroom.

Creativity and Innovation
o The move towards PowerPoint presentations
o Outlining chapters using laptops

Communication and Collaboration
o The example of the Google documents. Students can collaborate on an assignment over the web. This will increase accountability and participation.
o Access to Pen Pal idea but on a much wider scale. Students can now communicate with other students from anywhere in the world.
o Important to monitor chats and collaboration. Teachers need to set standards and requirements to keep students on task.

Research and Information Fluency
o Many textbooks now contain a technology link. Students no longer take large books home to study, but can bring home a CD and access information on the computer.
o Web quests to research a topic.

Critical Thinking, Problem-Solving and Decision Making
o Students must learn to evaluate and organize the information that they gather from Internet sources.
o Students need to learn how to do Advanced Searches to focus their research.

Digital Citizenship
o Students need to be taught how to use the Internet in an appropriate manner.
o Teachers must teach students how to use the Internet safely to protect their ideas and identities. Many students post pictures and ideas on My Space. They need to be taught how to use this type of web page in a constructive way.

Technology Operations and Concepts
o We need to provide classes that help train students on the latest programs and applications available.