While using technology in the classroom is not a new concept, for most professors and students it is a new method of teaching and learning and thus presents new challenges. It is imperative that instructors first understand the technology itself, and second, understand their students’ knowledge and background in using and understanding the technology. The following forms may help you assess:

• how well you understand the hardware and software that your students will use.
• how prepared your students are to use online or technology products.
• how prepared they are to access material on the World Wide Web.

The first form may be printed out and distributed to your students prior to introducing the online or technological components of your class. You may want to print out the second form for your own records.

Assessing your students’ technological skills and access to the World Wide Web

Assessing your own technological knowledge and skills