Web wisdom measured

The state of California and a number of colleges are creating a test to evaluate internet intelligence, measuring whether students can locate and verify reliable online information and whether they know how to properly use and credit the material.

“They’re real comfortable instant-messaging, downloading MP3 files. They’re less comfortable using technology in ways that require real critical thinking,” says Teresa Egan of the Educational Testing Service.

A preliminary version of the new test, the Information and Communication Technology Literacy Assessment, was given to 3,300 Cal State students this spring to see how well it worked. Next year, it should be available for students on a voluntary basis.