The Development of a Test of Computer Literacy for Science Teachers in Grades K-12

An instrument to measure the computer literacy of science teachers in grades K-12 is being developed. This instrument, the Test of Computer Literacy for Science Teachers (TCLST), is part of ENLIST Micros (a project to develop a curriculum for training science teachers to use computers). The instrument, based on essential competencies for computer literacy for science teachers developed and validated for this project, will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the ENLIST Micros curriculum at developing those essential competencies in science teachers. In addition, TCLST can be used as a diagnostic test by universities and school districts to determine if teachers have previously achieved computer literacy and also for various purposes by researchers. A 12-step procedure for developing and validating criterion-referenced tests is being used to develp the TCLST. Results of the first eight steps are reported and discussed: preliminary considerations; review of objectives; item writing; assessment of content validity; revisions to test items; field test administration; revision of test items; and test assembly. The test is being piloted with over 200 preservice and inservice science teachers in 10 sites. Results of the pilot study will be used to establish instrument reliability and its construct and decision validity. (Author/JN)