GACE: Computer Skill Competency

The Computer Skill Competency assessment, offered as part of the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators, consists of one test. The test consists of 60 selected-response questions. The content areas covered by the first test are: the basic operations, concepts, and issues related to computer-based technology and electronic communication; using technology-based productivity tools; and integrating technology into the classroom. The topics covered by the computer-based technology and electronic communication subarea are: the basic concepts, terminology, and operations of computer hardware, software, and related peripheral devices; acceptable use policies; legal and ethical issues related to technology; safety and security issues related to technology; and Internet tools for communication and research. The topics covered by the technology-based productivity tools subarea are: the uses of word-processing, presentation, spreadsheet, and database software. The topics covered by the technology in the classroom subarea are: design and management of effective technology-enhanced learning environments; and technology-enhanced instruction methods for a diverse student population.

The examination must be completed within four hours. The total test score is placed on a scale of 100 to 300, with 220 as the lowest passing score. Scores are based on the number of selected-response questions answered correctly and the scores assigned by judges to the constructed responses. Test-takers will also receive performance indices indicating their success in each subarea of the examination. Scores will be available approximately a month after the date of the examination; unofficial results are posted on the internet, and an official score report is mailed to the test-taker, the Professional Standards Commission, and the institution specified by the test-taker during registration.

Practice Questions

1. Which kind of computer memory is used to temporarily store information while the computer is using it?

A: Read-only memory (ROM)
B: BIOS
C: Virtual memory
D: Random-access memory (RAM)

2. What is the name of the program that initiates an operating system when the computer is turned on?

A: Central processing unit (CPU)
B: BIOS
C: disk cache
D: SCSI

3. What is another name for the bit of information stored by your computer that enables it to reload web pages more quickly?

A: cache
B: byte
C: cookie
D: bit

4. What is the name of the central circuit board which connects to all the other internal components of a computer?

A: motherboard
B: hard drive
C: accelerated graphics port
D: operating system

5. Which of the following characteristics of a website does NOT indicate that it is reputable for academic use?

A: It is certified by a well-known organization.
B: It displays the credentials of its contributors.
C: It does not contain any dead links.
D: It does not contain links to other, better-known sites.

Answer Key

1. D. Computers with a large supply of RAM will run faster.
2. B. BIOS (basic input/output system) gets the computer started and enables the loading of a more sophisticated operating system.
3. C. Cookies allow a computer to quickly recognize and reload a familiar web page.
4. A. The motherboard is the "hub" circuit board in a computer.
5. D. A responsible, well-maintained website will encourage users to seek out other information on the Internet.