Article: Technology in the Early Childhood Classroom

Hertzog, N. & Klein, M. 2005. Beyond Gaming: A technology explosion in early childhood classrooms. Gifted Child Today. Vol 28, no 3. Pages 24-65.

This article discussed how technology has taken on a huge role in Early Childhood classrooms. The article states that, "This generation of students , now referred to as "digital natives" in the computer industry" These Digital Natives were born into a world where technology, or personal computers, are used in everyday life. These children are everywhere that involves computers.
The article poses the question, "How can we channel their curiosity and use technology to help them grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally?" This article gives examples of how a particular school utilizes technology in their Early Childhood program.

First, Clements and Sarama (2003) outline the value of technology in 5 areas;

Social and emotional development
Cognitive Development and Learning
Creativity
Language and Reading

They stress that computers can bring students together, and help children to develop social skills. It was interesting to find that "Preschoolers spoken words per minute were twice as high at the computer then at any other activity." These children are working together, and building new vocabulary as they create and use their imaginations. This can be done when computers are used in a way that helps students to use problem solving skills and original ideas and concepts.
The article describes computers that are used as "Mindtools" when students are given a blank slate from which to work, whether it be art design or word processing. Students can benefit greatly when they are allowed to explore and create freely without boundaries.

The article also discussed how computers can strengthen literacy instruction. First, students enhance their writing when they are focusing more on the flow of ideas, rather then actually writing the words. Also, students are more motivated when they have authentic reasons to read, write, and share. It also helps that students are able to go back to their work on the computer and change things or add on whenever they need to.

There are also many ways that teachers can use technology to enhance their classrooms. First, teachers can include digital photos, scanned artwork, audio/video, and music in the students' portfolios.

This article gave me ideas on ways I can use computers and technology in my own early childhood classroom. For example, I could make a slideshow of the digital photos taken during the day, or week, and play them on a computer for parents to see when they drop off or pick up their children. I would also love to digitally record the students involved in an activity and be able to play it back for students, parents, and other teachers.

I found this article to be informative and contain many ideas and innovative ways to use technology in the early childhood classroom.