The utility of Technology in the Early Years classroom

Something I have been thinking about, especially after our smartboard demonstration, is the utility of technology in our classrooms (especially in Early Years classrooms).  Schools seem to be trying their hardest to obtain funding for as many new technologies as they can get their hands on.  Not only the Mimio boards and smartboards, but cameras and other electronic devices are sought after items which many teachers want to incorporate into their daily lessons.  My concern is that all these technologies are sought for and used only for their novel intrigue and not for their usefulness in learning.  Are these items merely toys that are fun to play with but add no educational value to a classroom?

I would hope that when a school division is thinking about seeking funding and incorporation of new technologies, they sit down to really think about how it should be used and the benefits and possible hindrances they offer to classroom learning.  Committees should be formed to discuss these concerns ahead of time, to ensure that the usefulness of incorporating these technologies is of more benefit than detriment.  Often, new technologies are used as more of a distraction than a focus on learning.  When teachers themselves do not understand the purpose of the technology, or how to incorporate it into their lessons, this is when problems arise.  Perhaps all the School Divisions should offer Professional Development sessions throughout the year, led by consultants or other professionals on effective and useful ways to incorporate technology into the classroom, as well as enlightening them how to be cautious when adding these resources.  I do see the value that many technologies can provide in a classroom setting, however I simply believe it should be well thought out before implemented.

Some information that I have found on this topic are from Education World, Scholastic, and other articles, which address the benefits and ways to incorporate technology into the classroom.  Continually referencing resources such as these can be a simple way to stay focused and on top of our learning regarding the benefits (or otherwise) of technology in our classrooms.  I have learned a great deal about various simple technologies that are beneficial, as well as some more elaborate technologies that can provide some new opportunities for learning.  I hope to be able to incorporate many of these into my classroom and I am sure that my students will have many more to show me.  I really look forward to seeing just how technology has changed the workings of an Early Years classroom.

Technology Resources

This week marked the beginning of a new phase of learning, new contacts, new methods and new resources.  Although overwhelming at times, it is also very exciting to approach these next steps.  One of the things that surely we are all excited about, are the new resources we will be introduced to and that we will find along the way.

One of these new resources which I have found quite interesting is the National Film Board website and its multitude of resources.  I am really glad that Dr. Hlynka showed us this website as I have had a look over it and there are some pretty amazing things to see.  There are films of all types, from addressing World Issues, to Kids' Movies, to Interactive videos.  There is surely something that would be of interest to all age groups, nationalities, classes, etc.  The ability to have such informative and quality content that can be easily accessed and used (for a small fee) as part of a lesson in the classroom, as a reference point, or simply out of interest is pretty spectacular.  I have even come across some of the old television vignettes that I saw as a child.  Does anyone remember this animated short?  http://www.nfb.ca/film/log_drivers_waltz/

I encourage you all to explore this website as it could really be beneficial to you and your students somewhere along the way.  I know I intend to use it as a fun educational resource and not only in my classroom, but at home for my children as well!

In addition to the NFB website, I would also suggest you visit the TED website, which began as a "nonprofit devoted to Ideas Worth Spreading" and has grown into something great.  I have known about TED and their infamous Talks for a couple years now, and there are some great videos, podcasts and blogs that at the very least, may motivate and encourage you to pursue some really progressive goals.  Dr. Hlynka gave us some links to TED Talks on his course syllabus, many related to technology, and I hope to find time to view many of them.

All the best for this year, next year and in all your future endeavors.