The article I choose was titled “Technology in Early Childhood Programs.” I thought this was a good article because it stated how teachers should use technology in their classrooms. There were six tips. The first one said that professionals must use technology in a developmentally appropriate way. It continued to say that something like an electronic worksheet would not benefit students much. The second tip said that developmentally appropriate software should enhance children’s thinking skills and help them to create peer relationships. Technology offers a chance to use problem-solving skills, communicate with others, and engage in creative play. The third tip advises technology be integrated into daily activities. This means it should be used as necessary, not in a way that disrupts the classroom. The fourth tip says to work for equity for all children, or that children of all backgrounds should have a chance to use technology. The fifth step stresses the powerful effect of technology on children forming stereotypes or relying on violence. The final step says to work with parents to come up with appropriate uses of technology. Together the two can agree on the best software.
I think that these tips are important for all educators, not just early childhood teachers. Two of these tips I found to be the most beneficial though. The first one I thought was important was the one about using technology in an appropriate way. Too often teachers think that just because a computer is being used, children are learning more. There are so many things we can use computers for and many teachers take the easy way out. Although it takes time to see what is available, I think it is important in enhancing a child’s education. The other tip I thought was important was to integrate technology into daily activities. When I was in elementary school I remember having computer as a special and we basically just went there to play games. I think it would have been more beneficial to have these computers dispersed throughout the classrooms and used with material that was being learned. Although I always enjoyed computer class in the lab, I was not learning anything.
Sunday, November 4, 2007
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Your article was very interesting. I liked that it had tips for how teachers should use technology. In our classes we are always hearing about developmentally appropriate practices and your article plays into that. It is critical that we look at that as educators.Since I am a little older, I remember when I was in elementary school and computers were really not in the classroom. I think it was not until maybe middle school that I remember them being there. At that time, they were just for special assignments. So, I too agree that technology should be integrated into daily activities but not be disruptful. If I had been able to play on a computer at just certain times in elementary I think that would have been disruptful but if it just became something that was used more than once a week maybe less disruptful.
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