Reflection 3: Use of Computers to extend children’s learning about cars.

 Technology has become more advanced that children tend to view different types of objects on a laptop than Television. Recently I have noticed that children have become very interested in cars, especially boys. Boys tend to have extreme interest in cars and monster trucks. Their interest have increased so much that the educators planned to focus on transport in which we took children for a walk around the block, where children tend to observe the variety of transport that the communities use. To extend on their learning, we took children to one of the staff’s vehicle where they tend to observe the different parts of the vehicle. 

As we came back, one of the toddlers asked if we could watch the racing car video on Television. I bought my laptop to children and placed it on the table where all children could watch. One of the children came to me and said, “Can I please turn it on”? I replied, “Yes you can and the child confidently pressed the power button, as soon as the light came, the child was delighted that he did something on his own. Te Whāriki: He Whāriki Mātauranga mo ngā Mokopuna o Aotearoa states that children develop understanding to gain knowledge through trying things out, exploration and curiosity (Ministry of Education, 1996).  Computers and internet has transformed education through emergence e-learning. As educators we should provide appropriate technology materials that enable children to explore ad build their curiosity of learning (Isenberg & Jalongo, 2007).

Through technology, children learn about different ways of viewing objects. Technology links to essential learning through children’s use of variety of technologies that enables them to explore their world in their own way. Children gain confidence and experience in communication technologies such as books, pencils and computers (Ministry of Education, 1996). Te Whāriki states that children develop experience with some of the technologies to learn how to read, write and communicate effectively. Technology is a useful tool in early childhood teaching; the use of technology enables teachers to easily meet the curriculum requirements and individual needs of every child (Ongan, 2005).

Computer linked smart board are used to facilitate group discussions and integrates the use of software, this technology supports children’s learning through scaffolding method (Smart technologies Inc, 1991). Computers support fine motor skills and provide skills to enhance brain development through thinking. Websites are used as a medium for exploration and communication that promote effective learning and development of mathematics and scientific literacy (Ongan, 2005). Children learn about digital technology through computers, laptops and IPads. Through these devices children learn to operate, press buttons and tend to explore different parts of the device.

References

Isenberg, J.P. & Jalongo, M.R. (2007). Creative thinking and arts- based learning, (4^th ed.). New Jersey, America: Pearson Education.

Ministry of Education, (1996). Te Whāriki, He Whāriki Mātauranga mo nga Mokopuna o Aotearoa: Early childhood curriculum. Wellington, New Zealand: Learning Media.

Talay-Ongan, A., & Ap, E. A. (Eds.). (2005). Child development and teaching young children. Southbank, Victoria, Australia: Thompson Social Science Press.

Smart Technologies Inc. (1991). Smart Board. Calgary, Alberta: Author.