www.naeyc.org
In my reading of the NAEYC website, I have identified the Position Statements tab as a section particularly relevant to my current professional development.
Reading through position statements summaries is an excellent way to build a frame of reference around current trends and issues.
I read a position statement this week on a topic I still consider to be controversial: Technology and Young Children. While I understand and agree with the overall concept that, when used appropriately, technology can be an enriching tool for enhancing learning and discovery, I am still not convinced that technology is necessary as a early learning tool. I am not an fan of iPads in Kindergarten. However, I continue to read about this topic and am still forming my position.
http://www.naeyc.org/content/technology-and-young-children
Regarding information that adds to my understanding of how economists support the early childhood field, I found an excerpt from a Q&A session with William Gilliam on the book The Pre-K Debates: Current Controversies and Debates. The excerpt provides an early childhood professional with excellent information to be used in speaking with members of the community, and outlines three economic reasons that early childhood education is important, along with three non-economic reasons. I like this balanced position. http://www.naeyc.org/content/event/pre-k-debates/highlights
The most interesting resource area I've found on the NAEYC website is State Trends area. I have enjoyed reading about what other states are doing in the areas of professional development systems, TQRIS, etc. as compared to my state.
http://www.naeyc.org/policy/statetrends#qris
Hi Lisa,
ReplyDeleteThe NAEYC website is very informative. I agree that technology can be an enriching tool for learning as long as these tools are used in moderation. Technology is all around and children are exposed to all kinds. They use computers, iPads, kindles, cell phones, different hand held games, and ipods; in addition to watching television. Did I leave anything out?...That's a lot! Using iPads in kindergarten does seem to be a bit much, but I guess if its not overused, early exposure can be beneficial.
I agree with you position about technology in the classroom. I too feel as though the use of technology has huge benefits within the classroom and its uses can be an excellent addition to the usage of other learning avenues. Yet, I do not feel as though its usage is a vital part of the learning and development of a young child.
ReplyDeletetechnology in the classroom can aid many children of varying abilities. i think one of the struggles of using technology is not the children's ability to absorb material thought this media, but on how the adult is able to present it. many adults are still unable to fluently use computers, which is fine, but can be difficult when the child is able to use it more effectively.
ReplyDeleteOh I totally think that technology is a great tool and use it often in my Pre-K classroom. My students learn so much easier when I am using my SmartBoard (interactive white board) and my Doc Camera. They enjoy listening to stories on the computer and seeing the world, by way of Youtube or Discovery Ed sites. I think technology is so versatile and all of my students feel comfortable and enjoy it. If you aren't conifdent in using it, just cut it on and see what the children can do with it. My students have taught me so much about it. Come on and give it a try! :-)
ReplyDelete