The topic of early childhood technology use is a topic that can be quite a dilemma for some. In fact, for many early childhood educators, introducing technology in early childhood education can be quite daunting.
As an educator, there is always a concern that utilizing technology may take away the personal aspect of the learning environment. However, we have found - and research proves - that the opposite is true!
Preschool-aged children are simply amazing, soaking up the world around them like little sponges and learning from absolutely every experience. Every sight, sound, smell and touch brings about a question which leads to new-found knowledge and growth.
As both parents and educators know, this enthusiasm is incredible to witness firsthand, and the excitement young children have for technology is no exception. Whether you are in a teacher-led or student-driven educational environment, interactive technology can greatly enhance engagement and learning with your kiddos!
For instance, a document camera can allow children to see the beauty of a caterpillar in great detail on a much larger scale. In addition, it makes it easy to record videos of students interactions.
The MimioTeach interactive whiteboard puts the power in the child's hand, allowing the child to not just witness a lesson but actually experience it!
Innovative technology like the Livescribe smartpen makes recording notes and audio so simple that the teacher can use it to "clone" herself in the room or easily capture student responses, songs, and more!
There was a time that discussing technology in early childhood education opened a can of worms. Was technology in early childhood education developmentally appropriate? Could it even be detrimental?
Thankfully, those arguments have become less and less as technology has now been realized as a positive influence in early childhood education.
What Does Effective Use of Early Childhood Technology Look Like?
Four-year-old Vivian is enthralled as she sits down with her favorite Barbie book and "reads" the book herself with her Livescribe smartpen.
Her mom has pre-recorded herself reading the pages on audio dots using cut-apart Livescribe dot paper.
Snack in hand, Vivian confidently peruses the entire book, laughing at all the best parts.
Go Above and Beyond the Classroom Walls
It is no surprise that technology has the potential to enrich the classroom learning experience. However, using technology with preschool and pre-K children can also have a far-reaching impact beyond the walls of the early childhood classroom.
Some of Our Favorite Early Childhood Technology Products
Interested in an early childhood technology demo?
We'd jump at the chance to evaluate your program, offer suggestions, and demonstrate just how engaging early childhood technology can be at your early childhood education center.