| Ladder Rungs | Skill Level | Concept Grasp | Information Literacy Level | Performance Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beginning User | Reasonable reading and typing skills; can use email and simple web access. | General awareness of importance of technology in
society, but little specific knowledge of computers or
how to use them for modeling or information access.
Sample Resources. |
Little experience with information retrieval or evaluation. | Successful at following simple instructions when using technology. |
| Passive User |
Can use word processing, library catalog and
periodical indices; can get
a newly purchased Personal Computer up and running and connect it to an
Internet Service Provider; can use operating
system features (E.g. Windows
desktop).
Sample Resources. |
Understand the societal impact and limitations of technology, basically how computers work, how the internet works, and how information can be stored and retrieved. | Comfortable with navigating information structures, but not aware of the need to evaluate sources. | Uses technology in the learning process (e.g., on-line tutorials, web resources, discussion boards, email communication and list serves, blackboard, etc.). |
| Active User | Can use application software which has a user friendly
interface (e.g.
presentation software, spreadsheets,
databases); can develop web pages with
editor (e.g. DreamWeaver); can use graphics
packages to create web illustrations as long as no
programming is involved; has acquired basic
technology skills appropriate to one's discipline.
Sample Resources. |
Understands the specifics of how IT is used in one's major discipline and in general how it is used in other disciplines. | Can navigate and evaluate information using a variety of sources, formats, and media, and use it in research and problem solving. | Has posed and answered research questions via technology. |
| Expert User | Has high communication skills; able to learn to use a new piece of software without help; knows how to write programs in at least one language (e.g. HTML); has mastered the advanced skills needed to use technology in one's major discipline. | Thinks about technology on an abstract level; understands the underpinnings of networking, algorithmic thinking, object-oriented programming, system development. | Possesses an understanding of information at the active user level as well as the economic, legal, and social issues surrounding the use of information. | Is a confident problem-solver and thinks abstractly about technology; can present a workshop relating to technology. |
| Self Assesssment | Beginning User ___ Passive User ___ Active User ___ Expert User ___ |
Beginning User ___ Passive User ___ Active User ___ Expert User ___ |
Beginning User ___ Passive User ___ Active User ___ Expert User ___ |
Beginning User ___ Passive User ___ Active User ___ Expert User ___ |