Once data are acquired, users must have appropriate tools to manipulate data into information and new knowledge. Conceptual knowledge of the tools is important since tools continually change. Tools are used in concert to solve problems situated in the real world. Users participate in a learning community dedicated to continuous evaluation of product and process.

Explanation: 

The Work: Manipulation of Data/Problem Solving strand emphasizes the manipulation of data into information. Appropriate productivity tools are used to solve problems. Collaborative activities are facilitated through evaluation of product and process.

The Work: Manipulation of Data/Problem Solving includes three related areas of knowledge and skills:

1. Uses appropriate computer-based productivity tools to create and modify solutions to problems.
2. Uses research skills and electronic communication, with appropriate supervision, to create new knowledge.
3. Uses technology applications to facilitate evaluation of work, both process and product.

Students develop proficiency on a wide range of applications while demonstrating complex and interrelated skill sets. Word processing software demands a different skill set than a typewriter. The use of spreadsheets and databases require students to develop conceptual and technical skills that differ from the previous skill set. Presentation software use requires understanding of the elements of design, typography, graphical manipulation and formatting, and other additional skills. Proficient use of technology applications provides the student with a complex skill set that is constantly evolving.

Students also develop the skills necessary to access the world of digital data. Students develop research skills that include a variety of strategies to locate and identify data needed to complete assigned tasks. Students also develop sophisticated skills and strategies for using digital communication tools to access and share information. Students develop the ability to use applications and other tools to facilitate research and communication in ways that promote problem solving. Students participate in electronic work groups as learners, mentors, and teachers. Increasingly, students access digital data and use this to create new or novel knowledge.

Technology can be used to identify and monitor student work tasks by tracking timelines, tracking trends, and for editorial purposes. As process and product are evaluated, modifications are ongoing and adjustments are made in a timely manner. Some processes may become automated while others are assisted through technological record keeping and reporting functions.

Instructions: Three representative samples are listed for each grade cluster (K-2, 3-5, & 6-8) and selected high school Technology Applications courses. The samples represent the three related knowledge and skills for each strand at each grade cluster and for two selected high school courses.

Knowledge and Skills for Work: Manipulation of Data:

1. Uses appropriate computer-based productivity tools to create and modify solutions to problems.
2. Uses research skills and electronic communication, with appropriate supervision, to create new knowledge.
3. Uses technology applications to facilitate evaluation of work, both process and product.

Examples:

DISCLAIMER - Samples listed below are representative samples only. Many other examples could be also be used. Users are encouraged to think about additional ways to present and teach specific TA TEKS student expectations.