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.

GACE Computer Skill Competency 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.