Introductory Post and ICT Competency Test (Week 1 & 2; Portfolio Item 1)




As commencement of the preliminary introductory week, following Orientation week, we the student teachers were taught the foundations of skills in, and the use of information and communications technology (ICT), and noting the facilities the course essentially provides. In my opinion, it is indispensable to require a broad spectrum of knowledge in regards to the ICT world, as fundamental methods of teaching are now moving forward, and integrating well into a constructivist and technologically advanced society, thus acquiring a futuristic approach to teaching and becoming the predominant way of learning.During our initial preparatory lesson (March 6th 2008), an introductory post was to be submitted. However, due to my lack of knowledge and inexperience in the given exercise, I was unable to do so. Over the next week, the completion of the ICT Competencies Test was required, and we were assigned a task, as to which resulted in creating a weblog account, requiring us to apply the basic practice of creating a username and password successfully, and appropriating personalised themes and so forth. To my disbelief, the site was some what of a challenge, however after frequent practice and great patience acquired by fellow peers, I became familiarised and accustom to the site, and as a result, constructing my first blog.Proceeding into week two, which served as a revision lesson, ensuring all individuals where up-to-date, stipulated the completion of the ICT Competency Test (version 01-05-07 Date used; 6th March 2008). Initially, the ICT Competencies Test was attempted as I would in conjunction with my present learning abilities, however after much consideration and enquiry into accurately completing the test (with Mr. Lee), it is apparent that I was to complete the test as if in the position of a teacher, hence my results were altered and I gained a better result consequently. Nonetheless, still true to my results. Choosing the levels which best reflected my current level of skill attainment and abilities (Ranked between levels 1 (one being the lowest) and 5 (being the highest)), I achieved a total of 56/75, and an average of level 4. Reaching this conclusion was attained through an analysis of each individual sector. As Part A’s results indicate I achieved 19 Out of 25, and an average of level 4, Part B; 18 Out of 25 with an average of level 3.6, and Part C; indicating 19 Out of 25, averaging level 4.

As the test clearly indicates in Part A, I am substantially competent in the Management of Files, Word Processing, Collaborating Documents via E-mail, and employing the use of the Internet efficiently. Nevertheless, there is room for the opportunity to develop a greater proficiency in Basic Computer Skills. Moreover, Part B’s results were fairly conflicting. As revealed by the test, I have limited knowledge in the use of Spreadsheets, Graphics and Photography as well as Digital Video (including animation). Yet I acquire a vast understanding of Technology Presentation and Desktop Publishing, achieving a high score of level 5 for each. It is to my understanding that my prior knowledge assisted in facilitating such a score. However, as documented above, due to my poor performance in other aspects of the section, the average was consequently reduced. Furthermore, Part C indicates that I am exceptionally competent in Constructivist Learning methods, Graphic Organisers (eg Inspiration, Kidspiration), Web Publishing on the Internet or an intranet (including web pages, blogs and wikis), Multi-media projects (including podcasts), as obtaining an average of Level 4. In addition, the results show I am relatively incompetent and have minimal understanding regarding Problem based Learning (WebQuests, Enquiry and other Rich Tasks).

Conclusively, I found that I am able execute most of the given tasks and utilize the majority of software presented. However, there is still room for improvement in areas that need to be developed; including all forms of knowledge and skills, in order to become a proficient user of ICT in the classroom. In retrospect, the regular practice and exposure to such advanced technology as to date, in school, university, the home environment and other relevant institutes, has put into practice what knowledge I already retain in regards to ICT and which will assist me in my current and future personal and professional practices as a teacher. Especially considering today’s technologically based society, I believe it is imperative to possess such knowledge, not only to generate a more motivating, and interactive learning environment, but utilizing such abilities and skills into my profession, (as presented on day one of my practical at Matraville Public Primary School, using the methods of an interactive white board, Powerpoint, Microsoft Word, The Internet and so forth) has become a vital skill implemented in today’s education system and schooling curriculum. I found the exercise relevant, effective and essential in relaying and solidifying knowledge I already acquire, and also serving as an eye opener into my weaknesses, in which I never knew existed. As evident, I have a considerable amount of learning to do in regards to this course, which consequently would result in an accommodating resource and skill for my chosen profession. As time persists, I feel my confidence in ICT will thrive independently and successfully. I aspire to persist in my computer learning skills in the ICT course, and develop into a more structured and assertive individual; as I believe it is vital to implement the knowledge of technology into today’s education system. I am increasingly looking forward to updating my knowledge, as I believe my knowledge can only grow, and as such will with the progression of this course.

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Published::
3.13.08 / 11pm
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