Pre-K Technology Applications TEKS

The use of technology in the Pre-K classroom enables children to have exposure to different curriculum content areas and helps to develop problem solving and communication skills vital in the 21st century. By the end of the Pre-K year, children are expected to navigate through age-appropriate software programs, use a variety of computer input devices, have the ability to operate voice/sound recorders and touch screens, use software programs to express their own ideas, and recognize that information can be obtained through technology. Teachers play a vital role in the success of students using technology at this age by modeling how to use all components necessary as stated in the guidelines.

Using technology at an early age lays the foundation for the years to come by exposing students to the tools necessary to enhance their education, each skill building upon the other. The technology TEKS have been set up to give repeated exposure to the same TEKS, with greater depth, at different grade levels to ensure mastery. For example, in grades K-2, students are expected to "use technology terminology appropriate to the task" (126.2.(b)(1)(A)). This same TEK appears in grades 3-5 (126.3.(b)(1)(A)). In grades K-2, students are expected to be able to "start and exit programs as well as create, name, and save files." The TEK in grades 3-5 takes it to the next level of difficulty - students should be able to "save and delete files, use menu options and commands, and work with more than one software application." This spiraling effect continues through grade 12.