“Computers are part of our modern world, and when integrated into the early childhood classroom they can be effective learning tools. The important thing to remember is that technology can be integrated into learning centers appropriately as long as the child is an active learner who can touch, feel, experiment and create within that environment"

 —Rebecca Isbell, author of The Complete Learning Center Book (revised edition) 

 

 

We Live in the Age of Technology 

Young children are curious about the things around them, and early childhood classrooms provide an environment where children can learn about and explore their world. Technology is a part of everyday life in the modern world. Years ago, the latest “technology” was a chalk board; today, it includes such things as “smart boards” and even computerized “smart tables” where children can interact with child-sized technology.

 

The Role of Computers

Computers are an important part of our world. They are in our homes, work places, and schools. Although early childhood experts continue to debate whether it is appropriate to have computers in the preschool environment, the fact remains that for most young children, technology is part of their lives. Therefore, shouldn’t  early childhood educators be on the front lines of helping young children learn to use technology appropriately?

 

Maybe the debate should not be about whether computers are appropriate, but about how to use them appropriately in the early childhood classroom. For example, infants and toddlers are busy learning to crawl and move their bodies. Their interest in exploring technology may be limited to pushing some buttons or laughing when they hear a funny noise. Yet, many three- and four-year-olds are developmentally ready to learn basic computer skills and use programs that build literacy, math, and other competencies.

 

A Strong Teacher and Supportive Setting Are Key to the Successful Integration of Technology

 

1.     The teacher’s role in the classroom is as important as ever when it comes to the computer center.  

a.      The teacher facilitates learning through relevant computer activities.

b.     Although seeking out appropriate software is important, the teacher must also create an extension of that software to the natural learning environment.

c.     The teacher can be a guide by using open-ended questions to interact with children as they are problem solving through the computer activity.

2.     The classroom setting is critical to the success of the computer center.

a.      The child must have free access to the computer area.

b.     This provides an opportunity for the child to:

i.             make choices, 

ii.            engage in self-directed play,

iii.            and have unlimited time to problem solve independently.

3.     The classroom computer also creates positive social interactions.

a. Three- and four-year-olds are developing at different levels socially and cognitively.

b. The computer center allows the child to sit beside a classmate and observe as the classmate uses the computer. This is a beginning stage of social development.

c. Another child may be ready to interact with a friend at that same center.

d. The next level of development is when the children are ready to take turns at the computer.

4.     The computer center also helps develop cognitive abilities.

a.   By learning to problem solve, a child develops a sense of accomplishment.

b.   Software applications that offer immediate feedback also help children learn to apply existing knowledge to novel situations.

 

Computer Skills

          According to Warren Buckleitner, editor of Children’s Software Review, a child who is getting ready for kindergarten may be able  to:

  • Use a mouse to move a curser
  • Recognize and use the “power keys” on a computer (such as the enter, space bar, delete keys)
  • Use some basic computer games or interactive software
  • Recognize computer-related words
  • Visit (with adult supervision) websites that are child friendly and age appropriate
  • Type his or her name on a basic computer keyboard

 

By combining teacher involvement and an appropriate classroom setting, the computer can be an important tool to help teachers meet individual goals for children and group goals for the classroom. 

 

 

Written by Robin Giddings, Forsyth County Schools, Winston Salem, North Carolina, with additional information provided by Clarissa Willis, Ph.D. and Rebecca Isbell, Ph.D.

 

Resources used:

Isbell, R. (2008) The complete learning center book (revised). Silver Spring, MD: Gryphon House Books.

 

Buckleitner, W. (2009). What should a preschooler know about technology? Early childhood today: Scholastic Inc.

 

Schiller, P. & Willis, C. (2008). Inclusive literacy lessons. Silver Spring, MD: Gryphon House Books.