NC Desk Online Test of Computer Skills
What is it?
During the 8th grade year, all students in North Carolina are tested for their proficiency in computer skills. The test covers the skill areas of word processing, database and spreadsheet manipulation, email, and window management.
The test has 72 items divided into four sections of 18 questions each. To experience the test, you can download it from the NCDesk website: http://cuacs8.mck.ncsu.edu/ncdesk/current.asp. If you use the Test Simulation it will illustrate how the test works. However, you must install a particular version of Java to use this simulation. Instructions are on the website.
Why do I have to take it?
The NC Desk test is a requirement to graduate from high school. If it is not passed in 8th grade, students have an opportunity to take it again each year until they pass it.
When do I have to take it?
Students take the test in the fall of their 8th grade year. If they do not pass, they are given an opportunity to take it again in the spring and then once each year after that until they pass. A letter with the student's score will be sent home.
What can I do to prepare for it?
Even if you are a good typist and familiar with computers there are other things to know. There are questions about
- Database Management
- Keyboard Skills and Desktop Publishing
- Multimedia
- Societal/Ethical Issues
- Spreadsheets
- Telecommunications and the Internet
The performance includes questions about:
- Word Processing/Text Editing/Desktop Publishing
- Ability to change existing format
- Double space to single space, or single space to double space
- Boldface, italicize, or underline specific text.
- Change the alignment of text using appropriate icon or command - left align, right align, center text, or fully justified.
- Proofread/edit
- Delete text, move text, copy and paste, cut and paste, and insert text.
- Use spell check command and make appropriate decision
- Spreadsheets – using an existing spreadsheet, students
- Manipulate data to answer “what if”/”what is” questions
- Write standard formulas using operators (+. -. /, *).
- Use functions (shortcut formulas) such as autosum, sum, average, maximum, and minimum.
- Label and input data in a new column
- Evaluate the existing spreadsheet for the MOST appropriate chart;
- Create simple charts based on specific instructions of information to be charted. (Choose appropriate chart based on information needed.
- Database Management
- Students extensively filter and sort a large database.
- Students must be able to identify which function is appropriate based on the wording of the question.
- Students must be able to create double and triple filters and sorts.
- Students must be able to add a new field and add data to that field, and edit information and field types in existing fields.
- Telecommunications
- Properly format an e-mail document
- Attach a file to an e-mail document
- Windows Management
- Cut, copy, and paste
- Maximize and minimize windows
- Undo the last action
- Open additional windows
- Work between two or more windows.
Where can I find more information about it?
You can find more information at the NC Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) website:
http://www.ncpublicschools.org/accountability/testing/computerskills/
Assessment Brief, North Carolina Online Test of Computer Skills. You can also click on any of the selections to the left for study materials or any of the sites below.
Sample Multiple-Choice Tests and Review Activities:
- Huge assortment of online quizzes and activities organized by computer skills subject area. It would be great to use these activities before or after reviewing your study guide. This site, created by the Instructional Technology Specialists in the Catawba County Public Schools, is highly recommended .
- Quia Tests and Games - Lots of outstanding practice through the hard work and cooperation of Julia Cline - Computer Teacher at Liberty Middle School (Burke County Schools) and Randy Tipton - Technology Specialist at Crest Middle School (Cleveland County Schools).
- Computer Ethics Quiz from Crews Middle School.
- Great classroom review activity from Catawba County:
Downloadable Practice files - Many thanks to Catawba County Schools: http://www.catawba.k12.nc.us/pages/sites/edwebsites/computerskills/newtest.htm
