"A" posting: Technology and Young Children-- Ages three through eight

The article Technology and Young Children-- Ages Three through Eight is about integrating technology into the classroom with young children. This article states," Early childhood educators must take responsibility to influence events that are transforming the daily lives of children and families." This statement is referring to many issues dealing with technology and young children: 1) the main goal of the teacher is evaluating the right uses of technology, 2) finding the benefits of different technology in early childhood technology, 3) adding technology into a typical classroom setting, 4) easy access to technology for all children including those with special needs, 5) stereotyping and violence in software, 6) the role of teachers and parents are supporters, and 7) the use of technology for professional development. The article also has many other good points such as, "technology can be used to affirm children's diversity," "teachers should actively select software that promotes positive social values," and "Early childhood educators should use technology as a tool for communication and collaboration among professionals as well as a tool for teaching children."

I believe the article relates to my question, "How do I integrate technology into a classroom of young children?" After reviewing this article I found several excellent pointers on how I could effectively bring technology into the classroom. I choose this article because I think technology is very important in today's society and I believe that when I become an elementary teacher that I should begin teaching my students what technology has to offer them. This article not only helps guide a teacher on what he/she needs to look for when trying to bring new technology into the classroom, but also how it can benefit the children. I will definitely refer back to this article in a couple years when I begin my teaching career.

http://vnweb.hwwilsonweb.com.ezproxy.fgcu.edu/hww/jumpstart.jhtml?recid=0bc05f7a67b1790e921d53c70e8fdc3163a6f5feb4dac732239491a72d2342682a12e89d5f88a06a&fmt=HNAEYC position statement: technology and young children--ages three through eight [reprinted from Young children, September 1996]. Information Technology in Childhood Education v. 1999 (1999) p. 281-6