Technology can have several benefits in early childhood education when used appropriately: 1) It can help motivate children and contribute to their cognitive and social development. 2) Technologies like computers and software can serve as catalysts for social interaction and conversations related to children's work when used together, rather than replacing human interaction. 3) Technology should be integrated with and enhance traditional teaching methods, not replace them, to fully support children's development.

1. Technology in Early Childhood Education

2. According to Research Technology Can… Help motivate children Contribute to cognitive and social development Enhance self-concept Improve attitudes about learning This information was found at: http://www.nwrel.org/request/june01/child.html#research Encourage longer, more complex speech Help children be better at problem solving, abstraction, and conceptual skills. Other benefits

3. Working together with Technology “ Technology cannot and should not replace human interaction or relationships… Properly used, however, computers and software can serve as catalysts for social interaction and conversations related to children's work” (Clements & Nastasi, 1993). Found on http://www.nwrel.org/request/june01/child.html#research , picture below found at http://www.4teachers.org/graphics/homepic1_gail.jpg

4. Integrating Technology Technology should not replace other traditional teaching methods. Use technology and other teaching strategies together to enhance development Top picture from: http://harvestchristianchurch.us/youth/images/HCC_preschoolers_1208.jpg Bottom picture from:http://www.amontessorimarketplace.com/images/child_with_computer.jpg

5. How to use Technology in the Classroom starfall.com (letters, numbers) Stellarium Google earth Laptops, internet Other… Picture on left found at http://rainelaw.files.wordpress.com/2007/11/pe0052515.jpg