Improving Computer Skills in Colleges of Education

Networked computers with multimedia capabilities are increasingly being used for teaching, research, and service activities in institutions of higher education. In order to meet user demands and to avoid costly mistakes, colleges and universities need to develop assessment strategies which can reliably determine their computer needs. As the “trainer of trainers,” a college of education should take a vital leadership role in the integration of technology and instruction for pre-service teachers and administrators. A survey instrument, recently implemented in the Education Department at the University of New Hampshire, was found to be effective in evaluating the levels of computer use of its faculty members and undergraduate and graduate students. The questionnaire is designed to measure sixteen computer skills and can be adapted for other academic departments. Results of this needs assessment led to various technology-based initiatives for educators at the university and in partnership with the public schools.