Beyond Gaming: A
Technology Explosion in Early Childhood Classes
This
article by Nancy Hertzog and Marjorie Klein focuses on the impact of technology
on learning within early childhood classrooms. It is based off of research proving
technology, specifically computers, has lasting effects on five different areas
in young learners including: social and
emotional development, cognitive development and learning, creativity, language
and reading, and mathematics. Through such research, the authors of this
article claim that the use of computers in instruction open new possibilities
for students’ learning and creativity. The article reads, “When computers are
used as “Mindtools,” students must “conceptualize, organize, and solve problems.”
The article’s authors work at a primary school where they have implemented a
system of inquiry to help guide the students’ learning. This system is made up
of three phases which include: Phase 1 – students share information and
experiences about topic; Phase 2 – students are allowed to investigate any
questions they have about topic; Phase 3 – students create ways to present
information to other classmates. Through this entire process, students are
provided technological resources to help them. This certain primary school
emphasizes the use of computers using softwares that include Microsoft Word,
Reader Rabbit, Power Point, and Internet Explorer.
Overall I felt
that this article made adequate claims about the use of
technology within the classroom. Computers have been proven to have a great
impact on students learning. They provide a wide variety of resources and means
of expression for students. Besides the research that has been made on this
topic, I know it is true from personal experience being a recent high school
graduate and current college student. However, I did find that this article
appeared to be somewhat dated. There are currently many more technology
resources to use in classrooms. This article focused mainly on computers with
students using the Microsoft, PowerPoint, and so forth. These are great tools;
however, there have been additional resources that have recently become
available that students can use to express their creativity. For example, there
are Prezis, microphones for recording, cameras, video cameras, and so forth.
I hope to be
able to use these different technologies within my own classroom in various
means of instruction. This article was directed at children in primary schools.
I am going to be a high school teacher. However, I believe that technology is
useful and important to incorporate in all grades from kindergarten to high
school. I can use it in direct instruction and my students can use it their
independent work.
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