TEXAS ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS FOR TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS

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Stewart - Tech Apps Chatbot

The overall summary of changes from the Technology Applications TEKS for Kindergarten to Grade 8, beginning with the school year 2012-2013, to the Technology Applications TEKS adopted in 2022 includes:

1. Updated Strands: The 2022 TEKS introduce new strands such as computational thinking, creativity and innovation, data literacy, management, and representation, digital citizenship, and practical technology concepts. These strands provide a more comprehensive and targeted approach to technology education.

2. Emphasis on Computational Thinking: The 2022 TEKS focus on developing computational thinking skills, which involve breaking down problems, identifying patterns, and creating algorithms. This emphasis prepares students for logical and analytical thinking required in computer science and problem-solving.

3. Integration of Creativity and Innovation: The 2022 TEKS highlight the importance of creativity and innovation in technology applications. Students are encouraged to use innovative design processes and develop original solutions to authentic problems.

4. Data Literacy and Management: The 2022 TEKS include a dedicated strand for data literacy, management, and representation. Students learn to collect, organize, analyze, and communicate data using digital tools, enabling them to make informed decisions based on data.

5. Digital Citizenship and Ethics: The 2022 TEKS incorporate a strand on digital citizenship, emphasizing responsible, ethical, and safe use of technology. Students learn about online etiquette, cybersecurity, privacy, and the consequences of inappropriate digital behavior.

6. Practical Technology Concepts: The 2022 TEKS include a strand focusing on practical technology concepts such as software applications, hardware, technology systems, keyboarding, and troubleshooting strategies. This strand equips students with essential skills to navigate and utilize various technologies effectively.

7. Integration and Flexibility: The 2022 TEKS emphasize the integration of technology applications across all content areas, allowing for flexibility in how schools offer technology education. It recognizes that technology skills are valuable in multiple disciplines and can be taught as stand-alone courses or integrated into existing curriculum.

Overall, the changes in the Technology Applications TEKS from the beginning of the 2012-2013 school year to the 2022 adoption reflect an updated and more comprehensive approach to technology education. The inclusion of computational thinking, data literacy, digital citizenship, and practical technology concepts prepares students to navigate the increasingly technology-driven world and develop critical skills for future careers.

“We’ve previously viewed Tech Apps as a way to improve student fluency with technology as tools,” says Dr. (Whitney) Dove. Truly, the 2011 Tech Apps standards taught students how to use documents, create spreadsheets, and save their work. “But now, because we’ve added computational thinking and digital literacy, we’re taking a more academic approach to Technology Applications.”