Top 5 Tips To Introduce Children to Technology

As an educator, introducing technology into the classroom can be an exciting and valuable way to improve the learning experience of your students. But there needs to be a balance so as to avoid the pitfalls of technology especially as it concerns children. However, we can't emphasize enough the need to let kids be familiar with technology.

Technology integration is no longer about whether tech belongs in classrooms. In today’s education landscape, it pertains to how technology is chosen and used for learning. Our modern society revolves around the use of technology and its many applications. And there are ways to get kids to use technology while avoiding the pitfalls.

What Does Technology in Today's Classroom Really Look Like?

In today's classrooms, technology integration plays a crucial role in ensuring a transformational learning experience and achivement of academic objectives. For Lisa Highfill, a technology integration specialist at Pleasanton Virtual Academy in California, she uses tech only when it addresses specific classroom needs. For instance, instead of individually calling on students, Highfill employs tech tools that facilitate group participation, allowing students to share responses and engage with each other's ideas.

Another technology integration specialist echoes the sentiment, highlighting the need for thoughtful integration to enhance the learning process. She recommends using the Triple E Framework, developed by Liz Kolb, a professor at the University of Michigan, as a guide. This framework evaluates the effectiveness of technology in terms of engagement, enhancement, and extension of learning goals.

For kids to catch up with the technology-driven world we live in, we should introduce them early. Here are some of the best steps to onboard the kids in your care with the use of technology.

Increasingly, educators are recognizing the value of technology in K-12 education. Are you ready to start using technology as a teaching tool? . Here are some tips that we have for you.

AGE APPROPRIATE

Educational materials that are age-appropriate for the kids are best.  Download games that will boost their memory and enhance technology or offline learning. Hardcover books are great. But allowing a child to perform supervised activities is a great way to introduce them. Source for expert and age-appropriate learning tools for these kids. Organize digital art classes and allow them to use their creativity the right way.

ATTACH VALUE TO SCREEN TIME

Kids are intelligent, more than we can ever imagine, even the timid ones. They understand what we’re trying to do and follow through with it. Hence, attaching good value to screen time can spur safe interactions with devices. Introducing tech only for specific and controlled activities can help kids be discerning. You could use technology only for game times and specific learning sessions. Also, try keeping the activities to controlled periods.

SET THE RIGHT EXAMPLE

Monkey see monkey do. Children are among the best copycats in the world. They grasp the things that they see around them. Kids spend the most time of their lives at home and in schools, and they pick up the habits that they see in these places. Hence as a child educator, you need to set the right example and encourage parents to do the same. You can’t tell kids to do what you need them to do by saying. Back it up with action too. Let them see you pay full attention when you don’t need to be using your device. They’ll learn to do the same.

INTRODUCE TECHNOLOGY AT THE RECOMMENDED AGE

According to the American Academy of Paediatrics, you shouldn’t expose kids to technology before age two. The reason for this is addiction. Introducing kids to technology too is like making it part of their life. As they grow older, kids should learn to separate themselves from their devices. Early exposure and eventual addiction can rob kids of quality communication skills. Kids might be able to grasp technology skills fast. It will help them stand out tomorrow but don’t succumb to the temptation to introduce it too early.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TOOLS

With the rise of digital literacy,  many young students are becoming adept with technology from an early age. Technology tools are a great way for educators to enhance students’ abilities, provide innovative ways to work, and offer access to new experiences. For teachers, technology tools can consolidate workloads, assist students with diverse capabilities, and supply a single place to monitor students’ progress.

STREE Education's STEAM programs exemplify technology tools that can the learning experience. Designed in partnership with DMA Stanford, STREE Education helps schools in the Middle East empower young minds with cutting-edge STEAM courses taught and developed by Stanford educators.

By immersing students in STEAM-rich environments, STREE Education fosters a love for learning that extends beyond the classroom, preparing them to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.