TECHNOLOGY AND YOUNG CHILDREN

Technology plays a significant role in all aspects of life today, and this role will only increase in the future .Although now there is considerable research that points to the positive effects of technology on children?s learning and development, the research indicates
that, in practice, computers supplement (and do not replace) highly valued early childhood activities and materials, such as art, blocks, sand, water, books, exploration with writing materials and dramatic play.

Developmentally appropriate software offers opportunities for collaborative play, learning and creation.

The teacher?s role is critical in making certain that good decisions are made about which technology to use and in supporting children in their use of technology to ensure that potential benefits are achieved.

Choosing appropriate software is similar to choosing appropriate books for the classroom. Teachers constantly make judgments about what is age appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally appropriate.

<< Back to Research    Top    Next topic >>