Early learning & technology
Technology is an integral part of our lives. Machines at home require higher levels of programming than ever before, there are technology toys and tools for children and adults and the world beyond our homes is rich in technologies. Our settings need to reflect a familiar environment for children to develop a sense of belonging and to be able to experience tools that have cultural significance.
Children are naturally curious and they will explore not only how technology works but also how it fits into the world they live in. Everyday technology supports children’s role and imaginative play by providing meaningful contexts; shops need bar code scanners and digital tills, homes need answer phones, car parks need ticket machines, and so on. There need to be opportunities for children to learn about technology as well as to learn with technology.
Social relationships are at the heart of learning and technology can provide excellent tools to engage, motivate and encourage learning. Digital cameras, scanners and moviemakers can put children and their families right at the centre of their learning. Different races and cultures can be celebrated and our displays, home made books, signs etc can include all our children, families and carers. The range of technology tools that have become available in the last few years can give all children greater access to learning right across areas of development.
It is important with such an explosion of technology tools available that practitioners consider appropriate uses and not be led by the technology itself. Our ‘Early learning & technology’ pages are intended to guide practitioners in developing their best practice in using technology in the early years.
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