| Exhibits no ability to use equipment (computers, image and sound recorders, studio and newsroom devices) beyond common familiarity/training. Does not take responsibility for proper care and maintenance of equipment seriously. | Reliance on instruction and manuals. Rudimentary familiarity with operations used most frequently in the field. Does not always follow procedures for equipment check out and maintenance. | Has reached a comfort level operating equipment. Displays ability to troubleshoot unassisted. Willing reasonably to experiment in ways that were not part of instruction. Recognizes responsibility for proper care and maintenance of equipment. | Operates hardware with little to no supervision. Uses equipment creatively and innovatively to convey compelling stories. Recognizes and accepts responsibility for proper care and maintenance of equipment. |