Integrating ICT in early learning

Recently I have been motivated to explore research into the integration of ICT in the early years. Following are some of the more interesting papers that contribute to ideas about the potentials with appropriate use of ICT with young learners. Some of the issues to take into consideration are also included.

I hope you find these as interesting as I did!

· Information and communication technologies (ICT) in the early years (discussion paper, SA); ‘Practitioners considered there was high potential for enhancing children’s learning and numeracy through ICT.’ P. 9

· The role and potential of ICT in early childhood education (review of the literature, NZ); ICT is useful in documenting and sharing children’s learning, strengthening relationships between educators and families and forging stronger connections between early childhood settings and children’s homes and other learning environments. pp. 71- 79.

· Integrating ICTs into the early childhood classroom (student assignment, Aust.) students come to school with vast differences in their ICT skills, however they are ready to learn to use a computer for learning and play.

· ”Click on miaow!”: how children of 3 and 4 experience the nursery computer (study findings, UK) computers provide opportunities for lively group interactions to promote language development, social interactions, collaboration and play.

· Technology in early childhood education: finding the balance (report, US) ‘Technology is another tool that can provide another way for children to learn and make sense of the world.’