Technology in the Classroom-Finding the Right Balance

With the arrival of modern technology, our lives are filled with computers, smart phones, iPads, and other high-tech gadgets.  When and how are these items appropriate for use in the classroom?

Technology in the classroom is a delicate balance-too much can be a hindrance, yet avoiding it all together can be a missed opportunity.  After careful examination and research, the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Media found interactive media to be an effective tool to support learning and development in early learning years.  “When used appropriately, technology and interactive media have tremendous potential to nurture early learning and development,” said Rita Catalano, executive director of the Fred Rogers Center.  The effectiveness of this use depends on the context in which it is applied.  Technology should be relevant to the material and add a new element for engaging children.  When deciding to use technology with young children, some items to look at to determine this are: the interests of the children in question, their developmental stage, cultural background, and individual abilities.  In early childhood, the use of technology should be hands-on and engaging to the children, helping them progress in skill development at their individual rates.  It should be one part of a daily classroom routine that provides many options to support learning. 

On the contrary, technology used without guidance and education can interfere with learning and development.  Simply placing a small child in front of a TV for hours will not successfully teach them lessons.  Television shows and videos offer a more passive use of technology that does not provide the appropriate encouragement to facilitate beneficial learning.  The teacher or caregiver’s role is important in delivering the technology-assisted lesson.  Researchers have determined that technology is best avoided in children under the age of 2 and usage should be limited for ages 2-5 to obtain healthy results. Positively, technology can also assist in building relationships between teachers and students.  Examples of proper use of technology are Skype chatting with relatives who might live far away, learning to use interactive maps, listening devices, digital microscopes and cameras.  Wood Designs provides a computer desk that is perfect for housing your classroom’s computer and monitor.  Visit WoodDesigns.com to view this desk and our variety of listening storage centers to keep all of your audio equipment organized and ready for interactive learning.