The Internet and the Early Childhood Classroom

As an early childhood preschool teacher I am always searching for new ways to keep the interests of my students. We use the high scope curriculum in our preschool so technology does not play a key role. However, this curriculum is based a lot on student interest. With the world and technology changing everyday I find my students being more interested in the computer and other forms of technology. This article confirmed my belief that technology can be integrated into the preschool classroom if it is used appropriately.


When using computers or the internet in the classroom you need to have an appropriate balance and make sure that students are using it to enhance their learning experiences. Using websites to enhance literacy and math activities are most helpful to students of this age. There are also many digital manipulatives that can enhance student learning.


As they state in the article you need to make sure that the website you are using is age appropriate as well. The article also states that when using websites with preschool children to make sure they are auditory. This will make it easier for students to use. Teacher support is also a big part of using the internet with such young children as the author states.


Another key part of using the internet with young children is to use real world experiences and models. As many preschool theories suggest, the article also says that you need to use real world models that are relevant and meaningful to children's lives.


I found this article very useful. It gave me a basis for reasons why I should include technology and the internet in my preschool classroom. The conclusion to this article really says it all:

"As with any technology, use of the Internet in the early childhood classroom is most effective when matched with appropriate teaching methods. The key to using the Internet with young children is to make sure their experiences are interactive and integrated into their other learning experiences."

The Internet and the Early Childhood Classroom, by Lisa K. Schanen