Ways to introduce children to ICT
ICT is an important area of development for young children. Most children will have had a great deal of contact with ICT in the first few years of their life through mobile phones, laptops or cameras. It is a vital that children are given opportunities to explore and investigate ICT resources, due to the impact it now has on daily life. ICT is also becoming an important aspect in the employment sector and a tool that will be vital for children to use in adulthood.
Children are less likely to be intimidated by, or afraid of ICT than are most adults. They often approach ICT with keenness and curiosity, being able to operate simple programmes. Therefore, if managed effectively, it may be seen as a suitable and motivating tool for teaching and learning.
Here are 6 great ways to incorporate ICT into your learning environment
Cameras
Digital cameras are a great way for children to experience ICT in their learning environment. They are able to take photos of their friends or things that interest them, and view these. Cameras give children the opportunity to learn how to operate simple equipment and allow them to show creative skills. Give the children a chance to explore with the camera and see what they can see through the display. Photos that are taken by the children can be displayed in the setting, encouraging the children to talk about their experiences.
Tablets or Laptops
Tablets and Laptops are a great way for children to use and explore an interactive piece of equipment. It is important that the children are supervised whilst using these forms of ICT, and the appropriate child locks put into place. However children are able to gain so much from tablets and laptops, then are able to refine their touch screen control, use buttons and open and close programmes. Laptops are a great way for children to view the world, watching videos or looking at photos of different places, cultures or people.
Voice recorders
Voice recorders are a fun way for children to use ICT. They are able to record a variety of sounds and conversations and play these back. Children can use voice recorders in imaginative play, adding to their imaginative scenarios or in the story corner whilst reading stories. The recorders can also be used in games, matching sounds or trying to make the same sound as someone else. This type of resource will support a child’s attention and listening skills, whilst developing their imagination and awareness of their surroundings.
Walkie Talkies
Children love using walkie talkies to interact with their friends. They can be used in imaginative play or in building communication with peers. Walkie Talkies require a great deal of understanding and manipulation for them to work effectively. The children need to take turns in conversation and learn to hold a button whilst talking, remembering to release once they have finished and allow the other person to respond.
CD’s
Music is an important aspect of children’s development and using CD’s and CD players can teach children about simple ICT. CD’s are very delicate and need to be handled with care, this can teach children about respect for items and the importance of ICT. CD players are usually managed through the use of buttons and volume switches. Children can practise using simple buttons and switches, to experiment with different ways to manipulate music. Listening to CD’s can also allow children to experience different types of music and connect these with different people or experiences,
Photocopiers and printers
Children rarely have access to photocopiers or printers, but may have experienced an adult using one. These are a great way for children to use their problem solving skills to work out what is happening and why. Small printers or photocopiers can allow children to experience making copies of their work or print out information or images they create on a computer or laptop. This allows children to take pride in their work and feel important and valued. Photocopiers and printers support children’s understanding of cause and effect, and their understanding of technology.