Since schools are reliant on technology to support information access and dissemination, it is crucial that KSU school psychologists-in-training develop a facility in computer & technology use. The development of skills associated with the efficient use of the emergent technologies — as tools to enhance professional productivity — requires the investment of practice & significant concerted effort. The learning curve from beginner to expert is not always fast nor is it routinely comfortable; however, the skills required to manipulate the contemporary 'information explosion' are prerequisites to professional competence in school psychology.
The KSU program has established a menu of technology-related activities viewed as essential in this skill area. Mastery of the ‘information technology domain’ is viewed by NASP as a fundamental training domain.
Above you'll find a self assessment measure. Each KSU school psychologist-in-training should regularly re-visit this matrix to ensure that there is a consistent growth in skill development — such that by the time the student approaches the specialist level Internship all these skills have been mastered at least to a level significantly beyond familiarity and approaching expertise. It is expected that the skills necessary for the application of all these skills into workplace-activities will have been established prior to beginning Internship.
The skills described below will be introduced during ‘Role of the School Psychologist’ (SPSY 6/77912), incorporated as requirements for all SPSY courses and evaluated for completion within 'Integrating Experience’ (SPSY 6/77980). A list of resources and supports to assist in the development and reinforcement of technology competencies will be provided to students via the SASP listserv or the program webpage, and students will be expected to summarize their information technology competencies in their annual portfolios.
Technology Competencies in the Support of Contemporary School Psychology
This matrix was originally conceptualized & designed by Mary Tipton, Director of Distance Education, White Hall, KSU, as part of a program to catalog computer skills for beginning teachers. Modifications appropriate for school psychologists, have been incorporated by Caven S. Mcloughlin
