All posts by Audra Liswith

Basic Computer and Information Literacy exam redesigned

College of Computer and Information Technology, computer programs

computer-literacy-testSt. Petersburg College recently redesigned the exam for their Basic Computer & Information Literacy course (CGS 1070). The new exam, which was launched May 18, evaluates a student’s knowledge of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel using a hands-on approach, instead of strictly using a multiple choice format. In the new format, students complete step-by-step graded projects in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel, a 40-question true/false section and a multiple choice quiz with computer literacy questions.

To find the best fit for the redesign, education companies had to be reviewed and colleges were contacted to review their experiences with various Basic Computer & Information Literacy exams and support services. The content, process and reporting of the exam over the last three months came together with the assistance of our Pearson representative and the support of the Seminole Campus Instructional Design Technologist (IDT) Alan Shapiro of the College of Computer & Information Technology.

Though the Basic Computer & Information Literacy Exam is taking students longer to complete, the students are receiving the testing instrument they need to demonstrate proficiency. As with any learning resource, revisions and refreshed content will be created in the coming months and years. The exam is administered at SPC Testing Centers at the cost of $20.00. Students can retake the exam only once. There are practice resources available as well, which were not previously available with former versions of the exam.

Who can take the exam?

Students may not take this exam if they are currently enrolled in or have previously attempted the course in one of its various course numbers: CTS 1101, CGS 1060 or the current CGS 1070 at SPC. Students may take the exam if CGS 1100, Computer Applications, has been attempted; the Basic Computer & Information Literacy Exam cannot be used as a substitute for CGS 1100. The exam does not count as class credit. Instead, a “P” is posted on a student’s transcript when they receive a passing score of 210 or better.