Reflection one: Computers in my centre -10/08/12

These computers have been in my Kindergarten for quite some time, I have observed the children use these computers and it has become quite a popular activity. During the children’s engagement with these computers children are gaining benefits in becoming familiar with technology in using these.

Children learn the basic process of how a computer works. They learn how to turn a computer on, how to print their work; they learn how to use the keys, mouse and finger bored. They are also using basic skills to perform on these computers and they contribute to other developmental areas of their learning. These particular computers helps children to contribute to their social skills, in taking turns and learning alongside other children, as there are two computers.

Children are able to practice their literature skills, when writing their names. Children are able to print their work, showing off their achievements, gaining a sense of belonging. Quite often in my centre children print these off and glue them into their portfolio.

The main things done by the children on these computers is a game called “kids world”, on this programme the children are able to do all sorts. They can write, draw (using the mouse as the tool to do so). They are able to use different colours and can also learn many different shapes. Ministry of Education (1996) states that children develop experiences with some technology and resources for math mathematics, reading and writing, (pg.80) which all can be performed of this piece of ICT equipment.

I feel that this is a good starter for children, to become familiar with technology; they seem to enjoy it as well as gain benefits so I believe this is a win-win. This piece of technology is not too advanced but still helps to teach children the basic parts to a computer and the process of it. When children are using these computers, it is a children’s sign in, so the internet is not accessible, which is good. Because internet can be a risk, with different sites ECT. This is a game which is already built into the computer and children only seem to be interested in playing this as it is interesting and you can do many different things.

When observing children, the children show me all the different things you can do and quite often they show me how they write their name, this is believe has a positive impact on the child’s learning. Children become familiar with what a computer can do and Ministry of Education, (1996) states that children develop familiarity with the properties and character of the materials and technology used in the creative and expressive arts (pg.80). As children are expressing themselves when making different pictures with colours and styles.

I think that having this type of technology in my centre is ok as it helps the children to gain an understanding of the basic technology. I’m still not sure as to whether I agree with the high tech I pads ECT in the centres. As I have seen children become addicted to these games on the computer, we do limit their time so it is ok ATM. But having more and more advanced technology may have a negative influence on the children as they may lose interest of other activities in the centre and become glued to all the latest technology, I also believe that it can be unfair when not all socio-economic areas have access to these pieces of equipment in their centre or at home.

Although there are many arguments that say technology is the new way now and no one can really change it, after reading this reading, it has made me see a different outlook on the technology increasing. Smorti, (1999) suggests that technology is a creative and purposeful actively aimed at meeting needs and opportunities through the developmental of products, systems or environment, (pg.5). Therefore this to me is saying that technology is a great problem solver.

From Jessica Foote :)