The Benefits of Integrating Computers into the Early Childhood Classroom :: Teaching Education

The Advantages of Integrating Computers into the Early Childhood Classroom Each year, new technologies hold the promise to alter the way we think and learn. Computers are prevalent everywhere, and they are making their way into school systems around the country (Roberts, Carter, Friel, and Miller, 1988). It is obvious that there is a demand for technological instruction in high school and college. However, the question of if computers should be implemented into early childhood classrooms is still prudent. With computers all around us, it is inevitable that children will be exposed to them, and they will eventually be facilitated into their daily lives. The purpose of this research paper is to explore the advantages, disadvantages, and methods of integrating computers into the early childhood classroom. How Computers Effect Young Children Early childhood experiences should maximize young children’s overall growth and development. Their eyes should be opened to the wonderment of learning and the pleasures of discovery. Computers can by an important tool to optimize young children’s potential, and help aid the learning process (Scoter 2001). Before deciding to introduce children to computers, it is important to address the potential benefits and dangers the machines have on youths. Potential Dangers Some people believe that computers should not have a place in early childhood classrooms. They speculate that computers will rob children of their childhood, replace other activities, reduce creativity, and lead to social isolation. It is feared that computers will force them to learn what they are not ready to learn. The machines are often viewed as one more thing to rush young children through their vital childhood years (Scoter, 2001). Whether computers will rob children of their childhood totally depends on how they are used. If children are forced to use computers for lengthy periods of time with drill software, computers could very well rob them of their childhood. On the other hand, if computers are used in appropriate ways that meet children’s development level, they can benefit young children, and teach them what they are ready to learn (NAEYC, 2001). It is also believed that computers will replace other childhood activities, such as building with blocks, painting pictures, or playing â€Å"house†. Exposure to computers may hinder children’s developing understanding of the real world. In reality, this does not occur. Whenever something new, whether it is a paint set or a computer, is first introduced into a classroom, all the children want to use it.