Description
Directions:
Background
Scaffolding in early childhood education is essential as it helps young children build their confidence and learn new knowledge that then opens new opportunities for further experimentation while learning. Scaffolding, or temporary teacher support and assistance, should be sensitive to children’s individual strengths and areas of improvement and provide children with the necessary support to accomplish a task, develop a new skill, or reach a goal.
With digital technologies quickly evolving and becoming increasingly available, scaffolding is a particularly effective technique for assisting and supporting young children during technology integration in preschool. Scaffolding techniques in early childhood education, when it comes to integrating the use of technology tools in the setting, might include:
Re-capping (say things like, “So you think that….”)
Suggesting (“You might like to try doing it this way.”)
Clarifying ideas (“Right, Julia, so you think that if we emptied the paint pot into this image it will escape through the gap?”)
Initial Post
Below are three tips you can use to scaffold children’s tech learning as you begin to introduce your 3-5-year-old preschoolers to technology tools that can be used to enhance the curriculum. Select one tip and identify a process or strategy you might use to help the children undertake digital activities that they usually would not be able to without your help. Please be sure to include at least two ideas.
Tip #1: Brainstorm and create a list of vocabulary that could be introduced to extend children’s learning through technology. Vocabulary connected to technology could include device, coding, technical, systems, computing, etc. Describe how you might introduce the children to new vocabulary during lesson plan activities or learning experiences throughout the day.
Tip #2: Brainstorm and create a list of materials children could use with the technology tools. Diverse materials can also scaffold children’s use of technology devices. Children can use technology in a purposeful way alongside other learning materials, such as books, toys, art supplies, blocks, and writing instruments. Provide an example of how the children might use the materials and technology tools together to help foster development.
Tip #3: Brainstorm and identify two techniques that can be connected to the use of technology tools in the program such as tablets, eBooks, or computers. Teaching young children new techniques such as typing, how to use the mouse, or how to navigate an app can open up new opportunities for more complex learning and experimentation. Describe strategies you would help your young learners become familiar with new technology devices in the program.
Reply Post
In your reply post, write a reflection on at least two other students’ initial posts. Select posts that addressed tips you did not write about in your initial post. Address the following prompts and questions:
What additional ideas do you have about how they might scaffold the learning?
What tips might you include in your classroom space?
Why do you think it is important to scaffold children’s tech learning? Give an example from a colleague’s post that supports your thoughts
