The purpose of this assignment is to provide students an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the use of technology in the classroom.
Effective teachers must carefully choose how and when to use technology to enhance the learning of young children. Although a variety of computer games may claim to be educational and appropriate for children, you will want to use your professional judgment to determine if the application or software program is developmentally appropriate.
This assignment has two parts. Ensure that you address each part of the assignment to receive full credit.
Part 1: Choose an application or software program that is marketed towards children. Describe in detail the attributes of the application or software program. Be sure to include the following:
Name of Software / Application
Developer of the Software / Application
Part 2: Write an essay about the application or software program chosen. The student will inform, describe, and explain how the application or software program is developmentally or not developmentally appropriate. Ensure that you explain the following aspects to defend your position on the technology.
Content—How does this help children learn, engage, express, imagine, or explore?
Context—What kinds of social interactions (such as conversations with parents or peers) are happening before, during, and after the use of the technology? Does it complement, and not interrupt, children’s learning experiences and natural play patterns?
The individual child—What does this child need right now to enhance his or her growth and development? Is this technology an appropriate match with this child’s needs, abilities, interests, and development stage?
The essay must be 1-2 pages in length, 5 paragraphs, 3-5 sentences per paragraph, written in APA format, include a minimum of at least one scholarly article to support the application or software being discussed, and provide a reference page.
Please Do Not Use the Following Educational Software in Your Research:
ABC Mouse
Khan Academy
Homer Learning
***Using any of the above Educational Software will not receive credit***
*Technology and Interactive Media as Tools in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth through Age 8 Article provided for additional reading and understanding in “Assignment 1” and “Literature Resources”