03.14.07
Nothing like the human touch?
During a discussion (virtual) with fellow Maine educators on technology instruction and use for young children, several questions were posed.
quote –
The questions are these: What is the balance for using computers and other tech tools with young children versus human contact and hands-on work? How important is it that kids relate in groups working with actual math manipulatives vs. the excellent virtual manipulatives that are everywhere on the web now. How important is that eye-to-eye, tactile experience working with stuff. In short, what is developmentally appropriate? Where is the balance? What is our job as educators in this regard? –
My belief is that technology is a “tool” at every level. Nothing replaces the hands-on personal touch with developing children, but technology can enhance and at times transform their learning. Your example of the toddler sitting in your lap with the computer made me smile. Here is an example of a machine replacing the book in the “mentors” hands, but the child still getting the one-on-one attention and direction from the adult. There must be a balance between the virtual and the real. Part of our mission, as educators, is to use every tool available in advancing our students to adulthood.
Any discussion?
