A Needs Assessment of Basic Technology Competencies with a Suggested Model of Improving Teacher Preparation and Technology Integration at Robert Morris University
Abstract: This paper examines the literature related to technology integration in teacher preparation programs and provides survey results of a basic technology competency needs assessment conducted with Robert Morris University School of Education Cooperating Teachers at partner school districts.The Basic Technology Competencies for Educators Inventory(BTCEI) was used as the survey instrument in this project to measure competencies of post-baccalaureate teachers in elementary education. The findings of the survey show that the ELED 1000: Emerging Technology and ELED 2000: Electronic Media for Teachers courses are meeting most basic technology competency needs. However, respondents to the survey show a lack of competency in the areas of basic networking, database use, and social, political and ethical concerns related to technology integration. After an analysis of the survey data and a literature review on technology integration, revisions were recommended to Robert Morris’s teacher education program.
Presider: Shih-Ping Kuo, Educational Technology, Purdue University