We live in a dangerous society and, in some ways, computers and the Internet have made it even more dangerous. So dangerous, in fact, that some educational experts have recently called for a moratorium on using computers in early childhood and elementary programs. Although this may seem an extreme reaction, by some, to the challenges posed by this technology, others are calling for a return to more traditional means of instructing young children.
There is no doubt that computers are reshaping all our lives in profound and unexpected ways, are becoming a part of our every-day life, and cannot be ignored. But, rather than focus on the potential hazards of computers in the classroom, and demand we stop using them with young children, why not use them in more appropriate ways, such as a delivery mechanism for educational DVDs and videos? Use of educational DVDs and videos allow the teacher to hand-select the topics to which their students are exposed and more easily incorporate both the educational content and necessary computer skills into their lesson plans. By delivering the educational DVDs via computer, the teacher can also ensure that the students’ need for computer literacy is addressed at the appropriate age level.
The key issue here is control. If you leave a young child to their own devices to search the Internet and absorb whatever information they may stumble across, you lose all control of what they may be learning, both good and bad. Educational DVDs and videos, on the other hand, allow you to control what the young child sees and learns, and if delivered via computer, still offer the exposure to the technology, also a required skill in today’s society.
It is important to remember that computers are simply tools – just like books, pencils, or the television. And, just like any other tool, they can be misused or can be used in developmentally appropriate ways to benefit our children. A great deal of research has been done that indicates there are certain positive effects of technology on early childhood learning but we must continue to treat computers as a supplement. We must take steps to ensure they do not replace the other important early childhood activities and materials, such as imaginative exploration, books, dramatic play, blocks, sand, water, art, etc. Rather than issue a ban on computers, educators and parents should make sure they are used to develop cognitive and social skills, as well as literacy, by controlling the content to which young learners are exposed.
If you’d like to know more and are interested in avoiding “The 7 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make Using Video in the Classroom” and want to start experiencing the benefits of using video effectively in your classroom, your next step is to download a FREE copy of “The 7 Biggest Mistakes Teachers Make Using Video in the Classroom” right now.
The small company I work for is committed to creating quality educational videos for classroom instruction. From the earliest script stages, all subject area content, images, and music are intensely reviewed and selected for meeting appropriate grade level, curriculum objectives and standards for our proprietary productions. The videos we distribute are also screened to meet our high standards.
Teachers in the 21st century classroom will be better educators if they understand how to use multi media in their lessons, if they understand the processes that research has shown to be the most effective for improved student performance, and if they know how to find quality video resources that will enhance their lessons.