Journal of Information Systems Education (JISE)

Volume 12

Volume 12 Number 2, Pages 81-92

Summer 2001


Lessons Learned from Piloting a Computer Literacy Test for Placement and Remedial Decisions


Elizabeth M. Pierce
Karl B. Lloyd
James Solak

Indiana University of Pennsylvania
Indiana, PA 15705, USA

Abstract: Computer literacy, like mathematical literacy or reading literacy, has become part of a student's basic education. Many students are routinely exposed to computers in grades K through 12. If sufficient numbers of incoming freshmen have already mastered basic computer skills and concepts then the question facing our university is whether computer literacy should continue to be taught at the college level or if this course should be treated as a remedial college preparatory course? To answer this question, a computer literacy test was devised to ascertain the computer literacy level of incoming freshmen. The results of the test will help determine which students should be placed out of our computer literacy course. In addition by understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the students that remain in the course, instructional adjustments can be made to address the current computer literacy needs of the student body.

Keywords: Computer literacy, Skills assessment

Download this article: JISE - Volume 12 Number 2, Page 81.pdf


Recommended Citation: Pierce, E. M., Lloyd, K. B., & Solak, J. (2001). Lessons Learned from Piloting a Computer Literacy Test for Placement and Remedial Decisions. Journal of Information Systems Education, 12(2), 81-92.