Technology has affected every age group, including our children in school. Children are using electronic devices daily in their classrooms. There is no doubt that when introduced properly, advanced technology goes a long way to improve the quality of our children's education and help their young brain functions to further evolve.
The Educational Media Technology Association supports educators who are incorporating interactive technology into their classroom instruction for students. Modern educational technology provides services that are now required by state and national standards for instructional excellence. A child's brain undergoes continual development by producing 700 new neural connections every second. [1]
There is a maturation progression in children's use of advanced tools. Their brain growth involves moving from exploring materials to mastering them and then to functional communication. This progression has been realized in the ease of how children have interacted with new technology tools. Children need time to explore their use of technology before they can learn to use these tools to communicate. Children adapt quickly when using these tools, just as quickly as they learn to use paper, chalk and crayons.
Technology is being used even in kindergarten. Typical technology tools include computers, tablets, cameras, multi-touch screens, games, interactive whiteboards, DVD players, electronic toys, and e-book readers. The technologies that benefit young children are tools that are interactive and allow the child to enhance their curiosity, solve problems easily and form individual thinking skills.
Children can use their advanced knowledge well into the future. When they learn about different software programs at a younger age, children will acquire a basic understanding of technology and computers that they will remember later in life, when they seek employment. Technology in early childhood is beneficial depending on the way it is introduced to children. It is important to monitor them, provide certain limitations and restrictions.
Unfortunately, modern technology is often used to replace social interaction. Educators and parents must make sure that we use tools to enhance and expand our social communications and the children's view of the world around them, in lieu of isolation. Educators should introduce tools to teach language, self-esteem, mathematics and reading; all are a part of increasing their cognitive function. There are several excellent and unique software programs with a primary educational focus that are fun, engaging and informative.
Government agencies, communities, parents, and the private sector must work together to ensure the well-being of our children and families. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation reports that in order for our children to compete, their learning experiences must allow them to engage and allow them to mentally progress at a pace that meets their specific needs. This allows them to master technological tools for use today and tomorrow.
The ground floor of digital innovation is here to stay. The National Center for Education Statistics further reports that there are federal and state agency millions that are flowing into technology for schools. This investment must keep flowing for early childhood education. Embracing technology tools for early childhood classroom training is an investment in the movers and shakers of tomorrow. [2]