Most people think “technology proficiency” means typing fast or quickly creating a PowerPoint presentation. However, it is not about how well the student knows the technology itself, but how the technology helps the child to learn a subject better, faster or deeper. This leads to higher student achievement.
Easier writing means more writing
For example, third graders find it easier to write with a keyboard than with a pencil or pen. When writing is easier, children write more. And when they write more, they learn to write better.
Teachers of Apple Classrooms of Tomorrow (ACOT) students often remarked that their very young students were far more capable of mature work when writing with computers than they had ever thought possible. As a result, they expected more and got more from these students. (Dwyer, 1994)
Deeper understanding through simulation and modeling
What about the use of technology in science? Students are able to gain a much deeper understanding of science using simulation software than one lab experiment. Using mathematics modeling tools can help students who have difficulty grasping abstract ideas make mathematics more concrete, which again helps them internalize the mathematics.
The use of technology and the development of technology proficiency can lead to deeper understanding of subject matters.
Kate Kemker Assistant Director, Florida Center for Instructional Technology, University of South Florida
MILE Guide for 21st Century Skills
This guide can help any state, district or school answer some critical questions about how they are preparing students to meet the challenges of the new millennium.
![Student video editing on a dual monitor workstation [photo]](http://images.apple.com/education/digitalkids/achievement/images/image_proficiency.jpg)
