Computer Literacy: Objectives 6-41.1

School Board of the City of Virginia Beach
Regulation 6-41.1

INSTRUCTION

Computer Literacy: Objectives

The following objectives have been developed to provide a framework for teaching computer literacy. The objectives represent competencies which students should achieve by graduation from high school.

1. The student will define selected computer terminology. Descriptive statement: Such terminology will include the proper names of computer components and terms which indicate procedures and functions, e.g., byte, menu, load, interface, RAM, ROM.
2. The student will identify the basic components of a computer and describe the function of each. Descriptive statement: Emphasis will be on the functional component systems, e.g., central processing unit, input/output devices, memory.
3. The student will load and run a prepared program. Descriptive statement: Skills emphasized are turning on the computer and appropriate peripherals, inserting the appropriate software and following instructions to complete the program.
4. The student will use the keyboard to interact with the computer. Descriptive statement: These skills will include the use of special function and alphanumeric keys.
5. The student will select and use an appropriate program to accomplish a given task. Descriptive statement: This involves task analysis, selection and use of compatible software packages.
6. The student will describe a computer program. Descriptive statement: Emphasis will be on understanding that a program is a series of logical, sequential statements which instruct the computer to perform the operations necessary to solve a problem or complete a task.
7. The student will analyze a simple problem and describe procedures to solve that problem. Descriptive statement: Emphasis is on the use of logical thinking and problem-solving skills. This does not require, but may include, the use of a computer and the writing of a simple program.
8. The student will describe the recent development of computer technology and its applications in daily living. Descriptive statement: Emphasis will be on computer applications in the home, school and community. This may include the history of computer technology.
9. The student will describe the potential and limitations of the computer. Descriptive statement: Emphasis will be on understanding the current and possible future capabilities of computers.
10. The student will identify and evaluate major ethical, social and economic issues which relate to the use of computers. Descriptive statement: Emphasis will be on the broad influence of computers upon the many facets of society and resultant changes in patterns of thought and action.
11. The student will explore computer-related careers and recognize the value of computer skills for future education and employment. Descriptive statement: Emphasis will be on the future use of computers in a variety of occupations and prerequisite skills needed for career planning.
12. The student will describe electronic data bases as information sources. Descriptive statement: Emphasis is on information found in data bases and methods of information retrieval.

Regulatory Authority

Virginia Board of Education Regulations, Accreditation of Public Schools in Virginia (January 1993)

Approved by Superintendent: October 19, 1993