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Initial Benchmarks for Admission

In order to provide the most current and relevant course content in the graduate Educational Technology Certificate Program, it is necessary for all incoming program participants to possess prerequisite computer and information technology skills.

Initial benchmark skills are necessary for successful program completion. They are used as a starting point for the continued development of advanced computer and information technology proficiencies. As such, these benchmark skills are not specifically covered in any courses. Prior to registering for courses, EdTech program participants are strongly encouraged to meet with their advisors. In the event that an individual does not possess the necessary prerequisite skills, it is recommended that the Foundations course ED 578 Introduction to Computers be completed as an elective.

Note: Undergraduate SHU Five Year Students transitioning to the Graduate MAT Program may use the undergraduate course ED 271 Intro to Computers as a program prerequisite.

Strand I.  Basic Computer Operations and Concepts
 
Benchmark Ia. – Demonstrate an understanding of the basic function of computer hardware and software components such as the CPU, monitor, keyboard, file storage, memory, and operating system.
 
Benchmark Ib. – Save files to the hard drive or removable storage device, such as a CD or flash drive. Understand and practice the correct naming and organizing of files and the extraction of compressed files.
 
Benchmark Ic. – Navigate the computer desktop demonstrating the ability to perform each of the following: find and start a program, navigate between programs on the taskbar, use Windows Explorer, minimize a program, work between two applications (windows), create a new desktop file, and delete desktop files.
 
Benchmark Id. – Demonstrate the ability to use keyboard shortcut keys to perform a variety of tasks.
 
Benchmark Ie. – Identify and install software required for specific tasks, including Internet plug-ins, shareware, freeware, demo software, anti-virus software, and software updates. (Example - Acrobat Reader, Quicktime, etc.)

Strand II.  Use of Productivity Software

Benchmark IIa. – Create and edit documents in Word 2007 or above demonstrating ability to perform each of the following: adjust margins, insert and format tables, set line spaces, format font, create tabs, add insert bulleted/numbered lists, add information to the header/footer, insert Word Art, change a hyperlink to regular text, and insert page numbers.

Benchmark IIb. – Create and edit presentations in PowerPoint 2007 or above demonstrating ability to perform each of the following: select a theme, change the background, create a title slide, print/save presentations in multiple formats, format text, insert bulleted/numbered lists, insert/move/resize images, add slide transitions, add animations, add sound, link to websites, view the slideshow, and rearrange slides.

Benchmark IIc. – Create and edit worksheets in Excel 2007 or above demonstrating ability to perform each of the following: enter text/numbers, select ranges, format cells, create charts and graphs from worksheet data, increase/decrease decimal places, apply MIN, MAX, AVG, and SUM functions, copy a worksheet page, change the color of a cell, change the width/ height of rows and columns, and rotate the text in a cell.

Strand III.  Understanding and Using Multimedia

Benchmark IIIa. – Create and edit graphic files, demonstrating ability to perform each of the following: using graphic formats appropriately, using scanners and digital cameras to obtain images, creating screen capture images, locating graphic clipart online, and using basic graphic software to create an original image.

Benchmark IIIb. – Demonstrate a basic understanding of different audio formats such as MP3 and WAV, locate online audio clips, and record simple audio files.

Benchmark IIIc. – Plan, design, and develop a video product to present content information.

Strand IV.  Electronic Communications

Benchmark IVa. – Compose and send email messages demonstrating the ability to perform the following: activate a university email account, reply to an email message, send and download attachments, manage messages by moving, forwarding, and deleting.

Benchmark IVb. – Use Blackboard to read, respond to, and post messages on the Discussion Board, download/upload files, and submit assignments (through the assignment links.)

Benchmark IVc. – Demonstrate an understanding of digital etiquette and responsible social interactions related to the use of technology and information.

Strand V.  Information Technology & Research Tools

Benchmark Va. – Locate and manage electronic information through the effective use of a variety of search engines.

Benchmark Vb. – Download and save files, such as software, graphics, documents, or PDFs from the Internet.

Benchmark Vc. – Search online databases (including university library resources) for the purpose of locating and downloading peer reviewed research articles.

Benchmark Vd. - Demonstrate an understanding of the legal and ethical use of digital information and technology, including copyright, intellectual property, and the appropriate documentation of sources.

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