Example:  In Math -- Basic Skills Include the 4 operations: Add, Subtract, Multiply & Divide

In Technology -- Basic Skills involve simple skills that are necessary to perform basic tasks such as:  Keyboarding, mouse manipulation, word processing, database, "cut & paste", spread sheet, e-mail.

Fifth graders learning touch typing techniques.

Basic Skills, however, do NOT solve problems.  They are often seen as drills or isolated tasks.  

Consumer-level software that is used to drill, score, or entertain also falls into the lowest-level implementation category.

Many educators now see the following as essential basic skills for all learners:

• Knowledgeable Learners: SCANS Competencies -- in Reading, Writing, Listening,
• quality producers who successfully apply academic, intellectual, artistic, and practical learning to create   quality of quality products and performances. For example, students who use appropriate methods, including the use of available technologies, to gather, process, and express information and  ideas. (A sense of quality.) strive to quality through thoughtful evaluation of their own and other's work.    
• effective communicators who apply their communication skills and processes effectively in a variety of ways and settings. For example, students who: communicate through a variety of modes including visual and performing arts, music, poetry, and mathematics. use written and spoken language effectively in formal and informal situations to communicate ideas and information, to ask and answer questions, and to give and understand directions. adapt communication strategies to various audiences and purposes. interpret oral and nonverbal communications of others. (Comments regarding communication.)
• competent thinkers who are able to think analytically and creatively, solve problems and make decisions. For example, students who: think critically and make independent judgments.
• effective collaborators who can work successfully with diverse individuals and groups. For example, students who: recognize and respect individual differences and multiple perspectives. interact effectively and productively in teams and groups. collaborate effectively to achieve group and team goals. respond successfully to a variety of communication styles and modes. (Comments regarding collaboration.)
• responsible citizens using 6 Pillars of Character
• lifelong learners who are self-directed and apply learning confidently and successfully to new and different situations and tasks in preparation for a changing world and workplace. For example, students who: use technological processes with confidence and skill. readily access and process information which enables them to prepare for new roles and tasks. view themselves as capable of using their own skills and knowledge to make sense of new problem situations. develop a sense of personal effectiveness and a belief in their ability to shape their futures. develop knowledge, skills and qualities necessary to make future personal, career, and social decisions in response to a changing world and workplace. (Comments regarding self-directed learning.)

As A Teachers -- Basic Skills include:

• Creating an environment for all student success
• Understanding & Implementing necessary changing role of  teacher
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Example of Web-based Curriculum Pages

Explanations of 5 Levels

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