In today’s ever evolving world of education, Texas is changing their education structure to prepare students for a tech-based future. Let’s explore what the new Technology Applications Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TA-TEKS) mean for educators, students, and the entire educational landscape.
Proclamation 2024 is the current instructional materials adopted for the state of Texas. Proclamation 2024 ushers in a wave of change, reshaping how computer science and technology applications are taught in schools from kindergarten to high school. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has worked to create a forward-thinking framework of standards that align with the demands of the 21st century. Adopted in 2022 to be implemented for the 2024-2025 school year, the new TA-TEKS reflect a focus on equipping students with the necessary skills needed to thrive in our digital world. By emphasizing problem-solving, critical thinking, higher-order thinking, and hands-on experiences, these standards aim to produce students who are not just consumers of technology but innovators and creators.
The revised TA-TEKS broadens computer science curriculum, putting emphasis on coding, programming, data analysis, and cybersecurity. The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of technology. TA-TEKS also emphasize connecting theoretical knowledge with practical, real-world applications to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for the subject matter.
As Texas educators prepare for this technology shift, there are a few things they can do to ensure a smooth transition and successful implementation of the new TA-TEKS. Teachers should actively seek professional development opportunities to familiarize themselves with the updated standards, curriculum, and teaching methodologies. Collaborate with colleagues on insights and best practices for the classroom and check the official list of the new standards on Texas State Board of Education to make sure that curriculum is aligned.
Thankfully, The Douglas Stewart Company partners with national educational brands that align with the new TA-TEKS standards, having computer science subjects covered from coding to robotics. Check out the vendors below to see which company aligns with your standard alignments needs.
What does the new TA-TEKS mean for your classroom structure? Let us know in the comments below.
Sources:
VARconnection 