I was contacted by a former co-worker about providing a workshop during Shawnee State University‘s “Fabulous Friday” conference. “Fabulous Friday” is an annual conference for Child Care Providers and Early Childhood Educators in the area.
Anytime I am asked to present about educational technology in an Early Childhood Education environment, I base my work on a 2012 Position Statement jointly released by NAEYC and the Fred Rogers Center.
The position statement makes the following six recommendations:
- When used intentionally and appropriately, technology and interactive media are effective tools to support learning and development.
- Intentional use requires early childhood teachers and administrators to have information and resources regarding the nature of these tools and the implications of their use with children.
- Limitations on the use of technology and media are important.
- Special considerations must be given to the use of technology with infants and toddlers.
- Attention to digital citizenship and equitable access is essential.
- Ongoing research and professional development are needed.
Important Links/Resources:
- Technology and Interactive Media as Tools in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth through Age 8
- Key Messages Summary
- Examples of Effective Practice
- Position Statement Webcast (about 22 minutes)
- Using Technology to Support Preschoolers’ Emergent Literacy and Family Involvement – GAYC 2012
- Positioning Children As Readers: The Use of Post Modern Picture Books In A Preschool Classroom | Presented by Philip Baumgarner & Dina Costa [ small video | large video ]
- Showcasing Transformative Technologies: Empowering Learning with Emergent and Innovative Tools (NAEYC 2013 Presentation by Mark Bailey, Bonnie Blagojevic, Diane Bales, and Warren Buckleitner)
- “Ten Questions for Educators to Ask When Using Technology with Young Children” by Sarah Jackson, from the Fred Rogers Center blog.