ERIC Number: ED251190
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1984-Mar-8
Pages: 12
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
So You Have One Computer? What Now?
McCrory, James C.
Although problems exist in using microcomputers with young children, there are many reasons teachers should encourage the use of microcomputers in early childhood classrooms. Teachers with only one microcomputer can employ the computer as a learning center to be used independently by two children at a time. Using computers in early childhood classrooms will make early childhood teaching a more attractive profession and will provide more access to computers for minorities and girls. The computer will be helpful as a "tutor" to teach students academic skills, as a "tool" for teachers to use in keeping records, and as a "tutee" with which students learn to program. While microcomputers should not be accepted uncritically into classrooms, positive aspects of computers for young children include enhancing self-concept, teaching problem solving, and providing individualized instruction. Negative aspects for young children include a paucity of suitable educational software, the possibility of reducing time parents spend with children, and the increasing gap between the "haves" and the "have nots." Early childhood teachers also need to know about the larger context and effects of microcomputers on society. Teachers must have a role in children's learning about computers, or the marketplace will be the greatest influence on the use of computers by children. (CB)
Publication Type: Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Note: Paper presented at the Annual Conference of the Southern Association for Children Under Six (35th, Lexington, KY, March 6-10, 1984).