The technology of our preschoolers' future is hardly imaginable, but what is certain is that tomorrow's tech will make their academic and professional lives vastly different from ours today.
According to the National Institute for Literacy, "Young children need opportunities to develop the early "technology-handling" skills associated with early digital literacy that are akin to the "book-handling" skills associated with early literacy development."
In spite of hearing the benefits of incorporating tech into the classroom, there was a clear divide among Kids Konnect teachers on if we should adopt tech into our curriculum or not.
The fear was that tech would take away from the hands-on learning experiences and social interactions that are vital in early learning.
We reached the decision to incorporate tech, but setting up a laptop or touchscreen wasn't going to make us a tech effective preschool. So, we got to work on how to do this right.
The top 5 things to ask about technology in a preschool classroom
Parents and teachers alike should know the basics of what works when it comes to young children and technology. Having tech in the classroom without a few ground rules can be more harmful than helpful.Here are 5 things to consider when looking for preschool with technology in the classroom:
- Has the teaching staff received training? Teachers who are comfortable with how technology works are more likely to embrace it in thier curriculum. They should also be knowledgable on cyber patrol and the software children will be engaged with to keep machines clean and ready for children to use at all times.Teachers who show confidence also build confidence for children when they see their teacher using the technology and prompts the child to participate.
- Is technology used to reward behavior or task completion? This should not be the case in a effective tech classroom. Technology should never be used as reward, because it is part of their curriculum and building technology literacy for primary school learning.
- Where and when do children have access to computers? There should be a technology station or center available just as the dramatic play, block, or library are available. Children should be able to use the computers when they have free choice time, or during teacher-lead activities where technology is a benefit.
- Are computers used for testing? Teachers should resist the temptation of using computers for drill and skill. The development milestones of preschoolers requires more tactical engagement. There are standards in place that teachers should use to draw on each child's developmental stages. Computer literacy is only one area of learning.
- Ask why they decided to offer technology to children. This is a tell-tell sign on how computers are used in curriculum. If the preschool staff stumbles on this question, they may not be using the technology effectively. It may be in the room merely for show. You want a preschool who has a well thought out plan, has vetted out the software to make certain it's age appropriate, non-violent and diverse.You want a facility that doesn't rely on computers as a way to entertain children so they can have a break but to use this time as a way to teach computer literacy, teacher-student-peer engagement, and most of all, fun!
We have struck a balance in tech and tactical learning. Teachers use touchscreens and laptops to aid learning and promote familiarity with digital technologies. "We use technology to enhance, rather than replace, teaching and social interactions.", says Elisa Magidoff, Executive Director. "Besides use in teaching, we use it for playtime activities, like dancing to songs on YouTube and playing electronic games."
Kids Konnect has discovered the value of offering technology in our classrooms. Tech is here to stay and primary schools across the country are adopting technology in their curriculum. Preschools are here to prepare children for school success and would be remiss if they didn't make this part of our preschool curriculum.
Kids Konnect has found having the tech center beneficial for our school and for the preschoolers who have graduated from our program. Technology is not evil when used properly.
Do you think technology has a place in the preschool curriculum?
