Exam Preparation Materials

The CETL exam is based on the Framework of Essential Skills of the K-12 CTO. It will measure your knowledge in the skills identified in the Framework. Because people come to the CTO field in a variety of ways (e.g., from a technology background, from an educational background), there is no best way to study for the exam. In addition, there are no preparatory materials that will “teach to the test.” Therefore, assessing your personal experiences in and knowledge of the education technology field should be your first step.

CoSN suggests you first review the Framework and then take our Self-Assessment, which will help you identify the skill areas in which to concentrate your studies. Once your knowledge levels have been assessed, there are a number of ways to improve your skills in those areas:

• Take our practice exam, which is a sampling of the types of questions that will be on the exam.
• Visit the CoSN Knowledge Center to review our library of resources available to education technology leaders. All of these resources are tied to at least two of the Framework’s ten skill areas.
• Purchase the just-released Become a Highly Capable School System Technology Leader: CoSN’s Certified Education Technology Leader (CETL) Certification Program Preparation Materials. This 11-module digital publication takes an in-depth look at each of the 10 skill areas identified in the Framework. Each module includes "To Do" exercises, "Reflection Questions" to help you gauge your understanding of the specific sk ill area, and an "Extending Your Study" section with suggestions for additional information on the module's topic.
• Form a study group with members of your local CoSN Chapter or your colleagues from your district.
• Identify a mentor in the CTO field willing to guide you with your studies.

We have also created some test taking tips, which candidates should review before sitting for the exam.