How to Evaluate Basic Computer Skills

There are many reasons it might be necessary to evaluate a person's basic computer skills. For example, you might be a new teacher who needs an idea of your students' knowledge level. Perhaps you are an employer who needs to test the basic computer skills of a job applicant. Whatever the reason for the evaluation, you will find that the process is quite simple. It's just a matter of providing questions and getting answers.


Instructions

1. Create a quiz or test that consists of basic computer skill questions. You can use a format such as fill in the blank, multiple choice or true and false. You can make up your own questions for the test or you can use questions from websites such as ProProfs, Lone Eagles and Jegs Works. An example of some of the questions are How do you cut and paste? How do you open a computer file? What is an Internet browser? What is the address bar of the Internet browser used for?

2. Pass out the test to the individual. Give him a set time to take the test. For example, you can allow 25-30 minutes for a 30-question test.

3. Give the individual a typing test. Typing is also considered a basic computer skill. The average typing speed is about 35-40 words per minute. By giving a typing test, you can see if the individual's typing is proficient enough to meet or exceed the norm. You can use websites such as Typing Test, Learn2Type and Power Typing.

4. Collect the test to review and evaluate. If the individual missed more than 30 percent of the questions, then it shows a need for improvement. You then can spend time helping the individual improve his skills. For example, if you notice that most of the questions missed are Internet-related, spend more time teaching the student how to browse and use the web. If he missed all of the spreadsheet questions, spend time teaching him how to create and use spreadsheets. You can use websites such as BayCon Group's Free Online Tutorials, GCF LearnFree Tutorials and Internet4Classrooms Tutorials to help you teach basic skills to the individual.


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