Emerging Technologies In Preschool Education

1. Emerging TechnologiesIn Preschool Education an overview of educational technology available to early childhood students

2. Computer Software Programs • There are many software programs that have been developed to target early childhood development. • Listed below are some popular options: • Sesame Street First Steps • Jump Start Preschool Programs • Adventure Workshop • Reader Rabbit

3. Web Sites for Preschool Kids • Below are websites geared for development in the early years and kindergarten readiness: • Kiddyhouse.com • Starfall.com • Everythingpreschool.com • Apples4theteacher.com • Funschool.kaboose.com • Sproutonline.com

4. Tag Reading Systems • The Tag Reading System by LeapFrog is an optical pen that can read to children aloud from specially designed story books. • The children are able to follow the words on the page and the pen will read to them. • You can also touch the pictures within the book and it will label the pictures. • This is an excellent tool for emerging reading skills.

5. BeeBots • Bee Bots are a programmable robot for preschool children. • Children learn pre-math skills such as sequencing, estimation, problem-solving, graphing skills and number awareness. • Bee Bots come in a variety of color and are made with a sturdy, child-friendly design

6. Leapsters • A handheld educational video game for early childhood aged children • Games can be purchased to target specific ages of children from preschool through age 8 • Children can practice school-readiness skills and hand-eye coordination as they play

7. LeapPad Learning Books • LeapPad Learning books teach fundamental reading skills to young children in a way that keeps the child’s interest. • LeapPad books teach vocabulary, music, math, science, and reading skills. • Use of magic pen that follows along in the story.

8. Ipod Touch • Ipod touch can be loaded with preschool learning applications. • Many preschool applications are free at the iTunes store • Applications are available for reading, vocabulary, math, science, visual motor coordination, and more. • Can be used with children as young as two years old with adult supervision.

9. Flip Camcorders • The ease of use of the Flip Camcorder makes this video-making technology perfect for children in the early childhood years. • The one push button allows children to control video footage. • Flip Camcorders allow classrooms to make videos within their curriculum.

10. Digital Cameras • The uses of a digital camera in an early childhood classroom are endless. • Cameras can be used to make real-life sequencing cards, puzzles, and flash cards. • Cameras can build self-concept by utilizing classroom children in families throughout the classroom. • Digital cameras can document a child’s experiences and development through pictures of art, drawings, block building, and social interactions. • The use of digital cameras in an early childhood classroom is only limited by the teacher’s amount of creativity.

11. eBooks • Recently, eBooks have been marketed to gear towards young children. • Some manufactures of children’s eBooks include TumbleBooks, RippleReader, Vtech, and Apple (iPod and iPad). • eBooks are available through websites, or through eBook readers that are similar to a Kindle (adult eBook reader).

12. Presentation presented by: Cecelia Courter Emerging Technology Overview of technology available in early childhood Dr. Pownell October 11, 2010