Box B.5 - Sample Criteria from New York State Technology Standards: High School Level
To demonstrate technology competency in the seven areas described in the main text, students should be able to do the following in each area (only selected items are provided):
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Engineering design: Initiate an investigation, identify needs and opportunities for technological invention and innovation, generate creative solution ideas, break ideas into the significant functional elements, and explore possible refinements.
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Tools, resources and technological processes: Explain trade-offs, and describe and model methods to control processes and monitor system outputs.
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Computer technology: Understand basic computer architecture and describe the function of computer subsystems and peripheral devices; select a computer system that meets personal needs; attach a modem to a computer system and telephone line, set up and use communications software, connect to various online networks, including the Internet, and access needed information using e-mail, telnet, gopher, ftf, and Web searches.
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Technological systems: Explain why making trade-offs among characteristics, such as safety, function, cost, ease of operation, quality post-purchase support, and environmental impact, is necessary when selecting systems for specific purposes; explain how complex technological systems involve the confluence of numerous other systems.
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History and evolution of technology: Explain how technological inventions have caused global growth and interdependence, stimulated economic competitiveness, created new jobs, and made other jobs, and made other jobs obsolete.
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Impacts of technology: Explain that although technological effects are complex and difficult to predict accurately, humans can control the development and implementation of technology; explain how computers and automation have changed the nature of work.
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Management of technology: Use computer-based scheduling and project tracking tools; discuss the role of technology in successful U.S. businesses; help to manage a group to gain understanding of the management of dynamics.
SOURCE: Adapted from New York State Department of Education. 1996. Learning Standards for Mathematics, Science, and Technology, revised edition, Albany, New York, pp. 50–53.
Copyright 1999 by the National Academy of Sciences