1

Welcome to the Massachusetts Technology Self-Assement Tool

The technology instrument has been designed for:

1. Teachers: to determine their own levels of technology proficiency and to identify personal technology professional
development needs.
2. Schools/Districts: to asses their professional development needs and to plan professional development activities that
will help all teachers become proficient in technology.

3. The State: to gather and report data on technology competencies and technology professional development.

Using the Technology Self-Assesment Tool

Please read through the entire documents, checking off skills that you have attained. You check off a skill by placing the number 1 in
the I Know How To column. Although some levels do not require that you complete all of the skills to attain mastery, you can go
back at any time to check off new skills when you learn them. You master level will be automatically calculated for you in the
yellow Your Mastery Level table

Mastery Levels

The TSAT has four mastery levels, as shown in the table below. The table show the percentage of skills that you should complete in
order to move to the next level. Although some levels do not require that you complete all of the skills, you can go back at any time
to check off new skills you have learned
Your Mastery Level

Technology Operations Teaching & Learning

Technology Operations & Concepts Ethics & Safety Teaching & Learning with Technology & Concepts Ethics & Safety w/Technology
Early Technology 100% 100% 100% Early Technology Navigate
88% using scroll50%
bars, arrow keys, special keys, trackpads/touchpads, and mice.
Developing Technology 80% 100% 80% Developing Technology 88% 100% 75%
Proficient 80% 100% 80% Proficient 57% -67% 64%
Advanced 80% 100% 80% Advanced 57% 67% 89%

If this is the first time you are taking this assessment, you should begin at Early Technology. The assessment presents a list of skills
with check boxes. Enter the number 1 in the I Know How To column if you have mastered the skill. You can take the
assessment as many times as you wish. When you have completed a skill level, proceed to the next higher level. For example, once
you master the skills in Early Technology, you should begin working on the Developing Technology level.

Enter the number 1 in the I Know How To column if you have mastered a skill
I Know A. Early Technology
How To Score 88%
Standard 1 – Technology Operations and Concepts

1 A1.1 Identify components of a computer system and its operating system (e.g., drives, memory,
window). Explain the functions of the components, and use appropriate terminology in
speaking about them.

1 A1.2 Connect the cables and cords correctly so that a computer is functional. Reduce the risk of
hardware failure through proper care of the components.
1 A1.3 Demonstrate basic skills for using hardware and applications (e.g., start up and shut down
computer system and peripherals, open and close a file, start an application and create a
document).
1 A1.5 Navigate using scroll bars, arrow keys, special keys, trackpads/touchpads, and mice.

1 A1.4 Follow the proper district/school procedures in the event of technical difficulties.
1 A1.6 Save/backup and retrieve a file to/from local hard drive, portable disk/device, and/or
online storage location.
1 Select a printer and print a document with appropriate resolution and orientation (portrait
or landscape).
1 A1.8 Use basic editing and formatting features of a word processing program (e.g., centering,
spacing, fonts, enter text, edit, copy and paste, and insert graphics).
A1.9 Explain the concept of a database, and provide examples from everyday life (e.g., library
catalogs, school records, telephone directories).
A1.10 Use correct terminology in speaking about Internet communications (e.g., browser, search
engine, website, URL, domain, links).
1 A1.11 Explain terms related to the use of networks (e.g., username, password, network, server,
domain).
1 A1.12 Select a strong (secure) password and keep it safe.
1 A1.13 Access the Web and identify and use navigation features of an Internet (e.g., “home,”
“back,” “forward,” hyperlinks, and multiple tabs).
1 A1.14 Add a website to Favorites or Bookmark it for future reference.
1 A1.15 Create and send a message using email. Retrieve and read email. Reply to sender and
forward an email and attach a file. Save, print and delete an email. Differentiate between
“reply” and “reply to all."
1 A1.16 Send an email attachment. Receive an attachment, open it, and save it to an appropriate
location.

I Know Score 50% Standard 2 – Ethics and Safety

How To
1 A2.1 Explain and comply with the Acceptable Use Policy in your district and describe the
consequences of failing to comply.
1 A2.2 Explain and apply classroom/lab rules for responsible and equitable use of technology.

A2.3 Explain potential problems viruses and other malware create and practical methods of
prevention (including exercising caution in opening email attachments and installing
software).
1 A2.4 Identify key intellectual property issues that apply to technology use in education, the
workplace and society (e.g., fair use, copyright, software licensing, plagiarism).

A2.5 Follow appropriate licensing for all software and content used.
A2.6 Discuss the basic concept of assistive technologies and Universal Design for Learning
(UDL).
A2.7 Evaluate the proper physical setting for technology use (ergonomics).
1 A2.8 Explain how media and technology can be used to distort or exaggerate information.

I Know 1 Score 80% Standard 3 – Teaching & Learning with Technology

How To
1 1 A3.1 Discuss current best practices on teaching and learning with technology in order to plan
rich learning environments and experiences.
A3.2 Use technology to gather curriculum-specific information from online and/or local digital
sources.
1 A3.3 Integrate technology into the curriculum of one's subject and/or grade level with assistance
of a coach, mentor or other staff member.
1 A3.4 Use digital and online tools to communicate with teachers, parents, and other stakeholders
and to create/distribute classroom materials.
1 A3.5 Identify your personal technology professional development needs.

B. Developing Technology

I Know Score 88% Standard 1 – Technology Operations and Concepts

How To
1 B1.1 Connect a computer to peripheral equipment(e.g., scanner, printer, projector).
1 B1.2 Identify and use a variety of storage media (e.g., CD/DVD, flash drives, network servers,
online storage spaces). Explain why a particular medium is or is not suited for a particular
storage task.
1 B1.3 Resolve basic technical difficulties (e.g., reboot computer, clear paper jam, replace ink
cartridge replacement).
B1.4 Use built-in help and other available support resources to learn about hardware and
software features and to troubleshoot problems.
B1.5 Use proper terminology to communicate commonly occurring technology problems (e.g.,
frozen screen, disk error, printing problems).
1 B1.6 Use editing and formatting features (margins, spelling, and tabs) in a word processing
application.. Insert images (e.g., downloaded from the Web or copied from a removable
device) into documents.
1 B1.7 Create a report or newsletter using word-processing or desktop publishing software.

1 B1.8 Describe the structure and function of spreadsheet (e.g., cells, rows, columns, and
formulas).
1 B1.9 Create an original spreadsheet, entering simple formulas (various number formats,
equations, percentages,). Reposition columns and rows; apply formatting features.

1 B1.10 Interpret spreadsheet information, and produce simple charts from data.
1 B1.11 Perform basic searches (including multiple key words) on digital and online databases (e.
g., library card catalog, encyclopedia). Use available tools to refine and limit the results of
a search.
1 B1.12 Create and manipulate graphics using a drawing or painting program (e.g., adjust scale,
size, shape, resolution).
1 B1.13 Create a simple multimedia presentation and explain the terminology (e.g., slide,
transition, build.)
1 B1.14 Organize Bookmarks or Favorites into folders for future reference.
1 B1.15 Identify and use basic search strategies on the Internet.
1 B1.16 Create an address book in an e-mail program.

I Know Score 100% Standard 2 – Ethics and Safety

How To
1 B2.1 Ensure equitable access to technology resources for all students in the class.
1 B2.2 Use basic assistive technology features of operating systems and applications. For
example, change text size in a word processor, use text-to-speech features, change mouse
controls, use on-screen calculators.
1 B2.3 Cite electronic sources correctly in accordance with academic standards (e.g., APA);
explain and model this in the classroom.
1 B2.4 Explain and demonstrate ethical and legal behavior (including fair use guidelines) in
copying/downloading files, applications, and media.
1 B2.5 Evaluate a website’s validity as a source of information (e.g., find site sponsor, author,
date the site was last updated, etc.).
1 B2.6 Explain the safe, responsible use of email, instant messaging, chat rooms, and other
electronic communications (including strategies for avoiding and responding to
cyberbullying and for avoiding malware/phishing schemes).

I Know Score 75% Standard 3 – Teaching & Learning with Technology

How To
B3.1 Design and develop lessons and activities that integrate technology in a variety of
1 instructional settings for all students.
1 B3.2 Use appropriate technology to differentiate instruction (e.g., multimedia presentations,
concept maps) for all learners.
B3.3 Identify and locate technology resources including online curriculum resources
(Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks and/or district curriculum guides) for planning.

1 B3.4 Manage student technology activities to optimize learning with available resources (e.g.,
in a one-computer classroom, a computer lab, or with portable/wireless technology).

1 B3.5 Use applications (spreadsheets, databases, etc.) to organize curriculum-specific

information into charts, tables and diagrams.
1 B3.6 Create multimedia presentations to communicate curriculum content.
B3.7 Integrate results of electronic research into classroom instruction with proper citations as
appropriate to the grade level.
1 B3.8 Locate and participate in appropriate technology professional development activities
offered by the district, local college/university, or online provider.

C. Proficient

I Know Score 57% Standard 1 – Technology Operations and Concepts

How To
1 C1.1 Recognize and work with a variety of different multimedia and document formats (e.g.,
jpg, html, mp3, pdf, doc, odt).
1 C1.2 Determine the size and format of files, to identify the storage space remaining on drives,
and to identify the version of an application in use.
1 C1.3 Install new software from a variety of sources (e.g., CD, DVD and the Internet) per district
policies.
C1.4 Resolve commonly occurring technology problems (e.g., frozen screen, disk error,
printing problems).
1 C1.5 Demonstrate intermediate word processing skills (e.g., indents, headers and footers, end
notes, bullets and numbering, tables, track changes, insert comments).

C1.6 Use built-in calculating functions (e.g., sum, average) in a spreadsheet application.
 C1.7 Customize formatting of charts or graphs created in spreadsheet. Define and use built-in
data functions of a spreadsheet such as sort, filter, find.
C1.8 Differentiate between formulas with absolute cell references and relative cell references in
a spreadsheet.
1 C1.9 Use multiple sheets within a spreadsheet and link cells together across sheets.
C1.10 Define terms (fìeld, table, record, query, etc.) and functions related to databases.

1 C1.11 Perform simple operations in a database (e.g., browse, sort, search, delete, add data, define
field formats).
1 C1.12 Create a multimedia presentation that includes a design template, tables, imported audio,
and graphics.
C1.13 Demonstrate advanced search strategies to locate and retrieve electronic information (e.g.,
use syntax and Boolean logic operators such as “and/or”) correctly.

1 C1.14 Share links among users via a variety of technologies (e.g., email, instant messaging,
social networks, message boards).

I Know Score 67% Standard 2 – Ethics and Safety

How To
C2.1 Use assistive technology software (e.g., text-to-speech, word prediction, voice recognition,
1 word-symbol, communication software).
C2.2 Address situations where inappropriate technology use occurs, and contact proper district
personnel to take action.
1 C2.3 Demonstrate and teach students the principals of ergonomics (e.g., avoiding repetitive
stress injuries maintaining proper posture) as well as how to use equipment safely.

I Know Standard 3 – Teaching & Learning with Technology

How To Score 64%
C3.1 Plan for the management of technology resources within the context of learning activities
1 (e.g., schedule use of computer lab, wireless laptops, whiteboard).
1 C3.2 Evaluate technology resources, including online resources for accuracy and suitability for
your curriculum area and the students you teach.
1 C3.3 Identify and discuss the technology proficiencies needed in the workplace, as well as
strategies for acquiring these proficiencies.
1 C3.4 Use appropriate technology tools to enhance your curriculum (e.g., digital projectors,
wireless laptops, handhelds, environmental probes).
1 C3.5 Facilitate technology-enhanced lessons that address content standards and student
technology literacy standards, while addressing a variety of learning styles.

1 C3.6 Use technology resources to collect and analyze data, interpret results, and communicate
findings to improve instructional practice and maximize student learning.

C3.7 Identify and evaluate developing technologies as they relate to your subject area, grade
level and student population.
C3.8 Assess student learning using a variety of district, school or individual technology tools
and strategies (e.g., the state Data Warehouse, progress spreadsheets, or commercial
gradebook applications).
C3.9 Provide assistance to colleagues in using multimedia presentations, WebQuests, and other
technology-rich lessons in the classroom.
C3.10 Manipulate data using charting tools and graphic organizers (e.g., concept mapping, and
outlining software) to connect ideas and organize information.
1 C3.11 Use electronic communication tools (e.g., message boards, email, virtual classrooms) to
enhance teaching and learning.
1 C3.12 Use the Internet to network with other teachers and learn about effective use of technology
in teaching your subject(s).
1 C3.13 Explain and correctly use terms related to online learning (e.g., upload, download, forum,
journal, post, thread, intranet, drop box, account).
C3.14 Facilitate student use of online tools (e.g., blogs, wikis, message boards) to gather and
share information collaboratively.

D. Advanced

I Know Score 57% Standard 1 – Technology Operations and Concepts

How To
D1.1 Install and troubleshoot new hardware.
1 D1.2 Understand the differences between common file types, and identify the appropriate use of
each. Identify methods of converting one file to another type. Use different graphic file
formats where appropriate (e.g., jpg to png, wav to mp3).

1 D1.3 Import/export and link data between spreadsheet, databases and other applications,
including presentation applications.
1 D1.4 Explain and demonstrate effective strategies for backing up and restoring personal
computer data.
1 D1.5 Design, create, modify and manipulate an original database.
D1.6 Be able to do queries and create reports from a database.
D1.7 Explain and properly use terms related to networks and Internet infrastructure (e.g., LAN,
WAN, DSL, T1, router, firewall, IP address, DHCP, DNS, POP, IMAP).

I Know Score 67% Standard 2 – Ethics and Safety

How To
D2.1 Manage assistive technology equipment and install peripherals for diverse learners (e.g.,
alternative keyboards, point devices, and scanners with OCR software).

1 D2.2 Explain basic practices that contribute to a website's accessibility to people with
disabilities (e.g., use of alternative text to describe graphics, providing captions for audio,
maintaining consistency in the interface).
1 D2.3 Discuss how copyright law and fair use is affected by, and affects, the use of the Internet.

I Know Score 89% Standard 3 – Teaching and Learning with Technology

How To
D3.1 Routinely and rigorously identify, evaluate, and apply emerging technologies as they
1 relate to teaching and learning.
1 D3.2 Use specialized technology tools for problem solving, decision-making, and creativity (e.
g., simulation software, geographic information systems, dynamic geometric software, art
and music composition software).
1 D3.3 Develop tools and online content (e.g., web pages, blogs, wikis, mailing lists) for
instruction and communication among students and faculty.
D3.4 Use technology (e.g., applets that require the use of logic to solve problems) to challenge
students to develop higher order thinking skills and creativity.
1 D3.5 Plan and implement collaborative projects with other classrooms or schools using
interactive tools (e.g., email, discussion forums, groupware, interactive websites, VoIP,
videoconferencing).
1 D3.6 Present ideas using the most appropriate communications technologies (e.g., multimedia
presentations, web pages, desktop-published documents).
1 D3.7 Distinguish between effective and ineffective design and presentation in electronic format
(e.g., websites, multimedia, charts).
1 D3.8 Explain and demonstrate the use of metadata (e.g., tagging, EXIF) to help students and
teachers organize information on their computers and/or the Internet.

1 D3.9 Design and deliver effective staff development in technology and its integration into the
curriculum.