Technology Assessment

Technology Assessment

To fully benefit from the Pre-ETS toolkit lessons, students will need to have some technology skills, such as accessing the internet, checking their email, opening files, copying and pasting, and dragging elements in PowerPoint. To assess and practice these skills, use the resources below prior to Pre-ETS instruction.

Materials

Prepare for Assessment

Review the assessment presentation and workbook prior to administering the assessment and determine if the assessment will be administered to students in a group or individually. Download the appropriate assessment(s) and make individual copies for each student.

Tips for Assessment and Instruction

Here are some recommendations for effective use of technology for students with significant disabilities when administering the Pre-ETS Technology Assessment and during Pre-ETS instruction.

General Tips:

  • Work with school staff to fix email or access issues.
  • Check devices and the internet before starting.
  • Use laptops if possible.
  • Talk to IEP case managers about student tech needs.
  • Turn on accessibility tools like voice commands or text-to-speech.
  • Ask Assistive Tech staff if students need special devices.
  • Follow school rules about personal devices.

Assessment Tips:

  • Decide who will give the test—the teacher or the Pre-ETS instructor.
  • Print paper copies if needed.
  • Have a helper enter answers for students if needed.
  • Offer read-aloud or visual help during the test.

Virtual Instruction Tips:

  • Use two screens if you can.
  • Open windows for the lesson, quizzes, and workbooks.
  • Share your screen and switch windows as needed.
  • Ask students to mute themselves if noisy.
  • Don't require cameras, but encourage chat or audio participation.
  • Teach students how to use chat and reactions.
  • Use students' workbook answers to keep them involved.

In-Person Instruction Tips:

  • Have students log in and open needed materials when they arrive.
  • Use the same browser as students.
  • Show how to use tech skills like drag-and-drop.
  • Use fun apps like Kahoot or Quizlet to keep students engaged.