I have now realised that technology is more than just hi-tech gadgets. It also encompasses the processes that take place whilst creating either an invention or innovation. The impact of technology in early childhood education is immense. This is because children are exposed to televisions, music, computers, digital cameras and joining technology such as glue, sello tape and paper clips. I have gained a lot from this course about how to implement aspects of technology into the early childhood centre.
This assignment gave me an opportunity to put into practice the concepts that I learnt from the literature researched. For instance, I was able to introduce joining technology to a child who did not have previous experience with the materials. This allowed her to familiarise herself with glue and tape so that in future she will gauge which is best to use for the purpose of her artwork. Furthermore, I agree with Priti's comment that the use of collage materials are good ways to introduce children to technology because these allow them to mould their thoughts into a creation. While doing this, the educator can extend on the child's social, fine motor and cognitive skills. In future, I can provide more joining technology such as paper clips and staples so that children gain knowledge that there are other things rather than glue and tape that can stick two objects together. Moreover, when the child engages in creating, he/she builds on his/her fine motor and cognitive skills. I can converse with him/her about her thoughts on what is going on and how improvisation can take place.
Improvisation is a critical part of technology as well. This is because plans can or need to change due to variables such as lack of resources. This aspect is prevalent in an early childhood setting. For instance, when J made his blueprint, he realised that the plan he had thought of changed slightly. Likewise, while building his scroll, he had to change his design because of the lack of materials. Hence, it is important to get children to understand the concept of improvisation. They need to understand that things do not always go ahead as planned. In J's case, I was there to guide him throughout the process and support him when he felt frustrated on not finding a suitable shape of material. I liked Emily's comment which summed up that we should reassure children that they are capable of thinking on their own and realising that innovation is part of the process of creation.
Even though technology is the focus of this course, the underlying message is that educators need to let children explore and learn on their own while being a source of support throught the experience. This was mentioned in Sonam's comment and I agree that as a teacher, we need to keep on asking open ended questions to get the children to think of what to do next. Raja and Annie mentioned in their comments that such interaction allows children to build on their imagination and change the way they interact with their peers and adults. For example, when a child is learning to use technology, he/she gain understanding of the concept by the help of the teacher and peers. Hence, next time, this child will be able to help others as well because of his/her new found knowledge. In addition, Amy also commented that allowing children to listen and take on other people's views and contributions can build on social skills and respecting other's views. In turn, the child will become more emphathetic towards others; one more step closer to becoming a competent learner.
As good as the exposure to technology sounds in early childhood education, it is not free of disadvantages. For instance, when children use the internet, it is important to follow NETSAFE strategies to ensure children are safe from unwanted sites and predators. Centres can implement these strategies by keeping their computers safe and perhaps providing information for the parents as well to keep the children safe at home too. Furthermore, children also become disheartened when there is not sufficient resources for them to create their artwork. Perhaps, it would be better to talk to the child about the types of materials that he/she would like to create with and then ask a parent or nearby neighbourhood shops to donate unwanted materials for the child to use. This way, the child will learn about recycling as well.
Hence, technology is important for children as they will grow up to be part of a workforce that deals with computers or some other aspect of technology. However, it is also significant that the teachers inculcate a sense of confidence in children so that they realise their capabilities.
