Being Fluent with Information Technology

Computers, communications, digital information, softwarethe constituents of the information ageare everywhere. Being computer literate, that is technically competent in two or three of today's software applications, is not enough anymore. Individuals who want to realize the potential value of information technology (IT) in their everyday lives need to be computer fluentable to use IT effectively today and to adapt to changes tomorrow. Being Fluent with Information Technology sets the standard for what everyone should know about IT in order to use it effectively now and in the future. It explores three kinds of knowledgeintellectual capabilities, foundational concepts, and skillsthat are essential for fluency with IT. The book presents detailed descriptions and examples of current skills and timeless concepts and capabilities, which will be useful to individuals who use IT and to the instructors who teach them. Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1 Why Know About Information Technology? 2 The Intellectual Framework of Fluency with Information Technology 3 Collateral Issues 4 Implementation Considerations A Illustrative Projects B Related Work C Individuals Who Briefed the Committee D Workshop Participants and Questions Posted on the Internet E Members of the Committee