Technology and Early Childhood Education

        This week we read articles about early childhood education and using technology with those students. I have a great deal of experience in working in an early childhood setting. At the early childhood age, I feel that students are eager learners and want to get their hands on everything. Giving students a chance to use technology as a form of learning gives students a chance to become strong and passionate learners. Technology, more specifically assistive technology, can be used to individualize learning and make learning more interactive and fun. I have seen the positive effects of using technology with early childhood children and I know that using technology will create more advanced learners.
         The article, Technology and Early Childhood Education, talks about using technology with children in a school setting. Studies have shown how using technology can benefit student learning. The article talked a lot about using technology to improve students' attitudes about learning. The key point of this article is using technology in a way that is appropriate for each student. The use of technology can help to improve verbal skills, cognitive skills, social skills, and academic skills if the tools are used appropriately and effectively. Teachers should acknowledge what types of technology devices would work best for each student. Whether that be computers, laptops, iPads, or another form of assistive technology. When the technology is appropriate for the students then the learning can be at an all time high.
        The article, The Role of Technology in Early Childhood Programs, questioned whether educational technology is appropriate for young children or not. To answer this question, you must first ask yourself what are the needs of each student. Does your student need support with verbal skills, communication skills, or academic skills? In most cases, technology or assistive technology can be an appropriate choice for these students. Technology is much more than a tool for gaming or streaming the Internet. Technology allows students to express themselves in a way that feels right to them. Assistive technology can help a young three year old with autism to communicate and become more expressive of their needs. Assistive technology can give a student a chance to learn their colors and shapes in a way that makes senses to them. Technology individualizes learning for students of all ages and gives them a chance to learn with the most appropriate tools.
       After reading the articles assigned for this week, I had a chance to really remember the importance of using technology in an early childhood setting. Sometimes we over look the importance of technology with early childhood students. It is important to remember that technology is a resource that has the opportunity to positively effect all student learning. As educators, we just have to remember to use the technology appropriately and in a way that benefits student learning.