Technology Applications TEKS

Pre-K TEKS: The Pre-K TEKS are designed to effectively familiarize the children with computers, software, and the simple functions and controls of their various components. Children learn how to insert and use CD's with a computer, how to navigate using a mouse, to become familiar with the vocabulary and terminology associated with computer usage, create writings and drawings, and learn information through interaction with technology.
These TEKS initially seem too simple, however, I am always surprised by the lack of familiarity that some of my current students have with computers. These Pre-K TEKS will help prepare students for performance in future grades. Knowing and becoming more acquainted with the simple functions and vocabulary dealing with computers will make their future interactions with technology easier, more effective, and they will be able to progress faster and produce higher quality products using technology. They will also pave the way for greater technological literacy and be able to assess and analyze information found using electronic resources.
The technology TEKS are said to be dynamic and contribute to what is known as a spiral or scaffolding curriculum. This type of curriculum is one that builds upon itself and gives the student many different opportunities for learning and demonstrating their mastery of what has been learned. An example of a series of TEKS that does this can be seen in the following:

The student is expected to:
(a) demonstrate proficiency in the use of a mouse, keyboard, scanner, recorder, disc, video, and digital camera by creating files
(b) use digital keyboarding standards
(c) use strategies when digitally capturing files to conserve memory and retain the image integrity
(d) differentiate among audio input

In this short series of TEKS, you can see how a student would have multiple opportunities to show mastery of the different functions with a keyboard, capturing and using different file types, and integrating various sources of technology.