Summary of the Article
The article explores the viability of tablet computers as an effective learning tool for young children, between 3 to 6 years of age. The study found children to be responsive with the new technology. With basic instructions, the children were able to use to tablet effectively for drawing and writing, the quality being at par with use of traditional teaching methods. Also, it did not require prior experience of use to get adapted to the digital technology. The study found that there is a correlation between age of children and the time they spend on computers, depending upon the computer interface used. The engagement with computer is relatively lesser in younger children, who were less than 53 months old.
The study also found that, given their inquisitive nature, children experiment more with technology, especially when they work in pairs. The frequency of experiments and technical issues increases with familiarity and independence of use. However, frequent occurrence of technical issues did not affect the enthusiasm of children. Overall, though age is an important variable for children’s engagement with computer, a more complex relationship exists between the distinctive feature of a technology and corresponding child development. The likeability, ease of use and better interactivity levels make it an effective learning aid for children.
My Position on Tablet Computers for Younger Children
Technology is definitely engaging and pulls children’s attention towards learning. It should be used as a learning aid. But, younger children should not be exposed to technology overuse. Traditional methods of learning have their own significance. They teach us the basics of drawing and writing. They make children fundamentally strong. Also, traditional methods enable more interaction between teacher and children, and among children. These interactions are also important for a child’s personality development. Thus, I would like to conclude that traditional methods enable both behavioural learning and building technical foundation. Hence, a mix of both the learning tools is required for enabling effective learning in children.
