When is the Right Time to Learn Computer Technology?
There is much debate as to when children should learn computer technology. In Chapter 3, according to Picciano and others, studies show middle school is the time when students make the greater use of the applications. Papert believes earlier is better since children develop logical reasoning between 7 and 11 years old. Elementary schools started introducing computer technology in the late 1990's, thus, agreeing with Papert's theory.
I would tend to agree with Papert's theory of "earlier is better." In having four grandsons who ranged now from 7 years old to 15 years old; they are able to navigate through most of the programs I am familiar with. My 9 year old grandson read a book and using an Avatar program did a book summary and review.
An Avatar Book Review by RM - it was his first so I let him go crazy with the effects. LOL
Which leads me to Chapter 4 in Picciano's book. Things we learn from databases to office software. I will generically combined technology in general for purposes of my thoughts.
When is computer technology to much for children? What have we lost during recent generations? A lot of my students in past years have become computer junkies. Kids come home from school - hopefully after doing their homework - jump on the computer to get their "fix." I remember as a child we went outside to socialize (play) with our friends until dark or Mom called us in for dinner as a family. On the weekends after chores we were outside with our friends unless Mom and Dad had other plans for us - like a trip to the lake.
Watch this video to jog your memories! Please share your thoughts or memories with us.
Remember When?
Reference:
Picciano, Anthony G. (2011). Educational leadership and planning for technology (5th ed). Pearson Education, Inc.: Upper Saddle River, NJ.
Reference:
Picciano, Anthony G. (2011). Educational leadership and planning for technology (5th ed). Pearson Education, Inc.: Upper Saddle River, NJ.
Alma,
ReplyDeleteI too would like to approach this experience from a parental perspective. My children have been exposed to a great deal of technology at an early age. Their exposure to technology from me has been along the mechanical fringe such as cutting grass, weed eating, operating vehicles, etc. My son was riding a motorcycle without any training wheels by the age of four and cutting the grass, with a riding mower, by the age of six. These experiences are not directly related to a traditional educational environment but they are definitely learning experiences that some adults have not experienced. My children’s experiences in learning did not stop with the training they received from me. My father taught them a lot about computer use and the use of Microsoft office products, specifically Word for their written assignments. My children used Microsoft Word to turn in written assignments while they were in elementary school. They learned more from my father because he knows more about computers than I do.
Concerning the age at which children should be exposed to the use technology, I am more apt to believe the earlier the better. My viewpoint and experience alone is not sufficient enough to bolster my opinion; however, I would like to refer back to some articles I read earlier in this degree pursuit. In Kozulin’s article regarding Vygotsky’s studies he discussed how the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD) affects learning in children; when they are exposed to a more mature influence they are more likely to emulate that person’s abilities (Kozulin, 2011). In my case the ZPD was my children’s exposure and relationship with me and my father that enabled them to step up to a different level of learning.
Kozulin, A. (2011). Introduction to Vygotsky’s “The dynamics of schoolchild’s mental development in relation to teaching and learning”. Journal of Cognitive Education and Psychology, 10(2), 195-197.
Alma,
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun, interactive post! Determining when technology should be implemented with a child is such a controversial topic, but a very important one to discuss. I truly feel that it is solely up to the parents as to when they decide their child is ready. It would be nice to see families and schools integrating a healthy balance of technology where it is not a technocentric environment day to day. I feel there should be boundaries for children and technology use in the home so they can still enjoy the beauty that comes with being a kid! :)
Terry,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you and the author that earlier is better.
Learning how to navigate a computer is like learning a foreign language. I love when I hear about preschool children who speak two languages simply because one parent speaks in their native language and they learn it from birth; completely effortlessly. In comparison, when watching an adult or older child try to learn Excel or other in-depth software, it is so difficult for them.
My boys, like your grandsons, are VERY tech-savvy. I gave them laptops for Christmas and was so disappointed to realize Windows 8 is extremely different that Windows 7! I couldn't believe it, what was Microsoft thinking! They even took away our start menu! I just knew my boys were never going to use these expensive gifts; Thanks Microsoft! Well, by Christmas night they had it all figured out. They went to YouTube and learned all they needed to know. LOL - Duh, Mom.
The technology available today is great. Children can learn so much from it and through it, and their lives can be enriched because of it. I loved seeing your grandson’s book report. However, there are other activities that will also enrich their lives: riding a bike, swinging on a swing, caring for a pet, spending time with Grandma, etc. Just as the book of Ecclesiastes tells us, “There is an appointed time for everything.” Ecc. 3:1a (NASB), we need to help our students, children, and grandchildren learn to balance the activities in their lives. When I taught middle school math, I was very particular about how soon my students could begin using a calculator regularly. I wanted them to learn to think things through and not just follow a set of rules mindlessly. As adults, we see a bigger picture than our students, so we need to help them learn balance.
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