1. True technology literacy must be developed in the context of meaningful academic content and tasks. While some level of skill may be built through “technology instruction” – instruction focused on technology use without a broader context – skill instruction is more effective when applied within the curriculum.
2. Two important, related components of technology literacy are the ability to match the tool to the task and the ability to decide if technology use is appropriate. Technology use that is overly prescriptive does little to develop this skill. Give students choices and provide “just-in-time” access to multiple technologies.
3. According to a recent study by Henry Becker at UC Irvine, powerful use by students does occur more often in the classrooms of teachers who are comfortable with technology. All teachers should make a serious effort to build their own technology literacy.
4. Students need constant reinforcement regarding the ethical use of intellectual property. Even when not required by the Fair Use provisions of copyright law, all words, images, and music used in a technology product should be credited and, if the product will be posted to the Web, permission should be obtained.
5. Seek out technology-based supplemental learning materials for your classroom or network. Technology support for self-directed learning prepares students for life-long learning and builds technology literacy.
