This study aimed to conduct a systematic literature review on empirical studies of how technologies influence young children's learning. Eighty-seven articles published between 2003 and 2013 were identified through the Web of Science database. We employed content analysis to identify the research trends of this topic. "Technology…

Seymour Papert, the inventor of the computer language LOGO, claims even small children can learn to program computers. Children must think through what they want the computer to do and thereby develop a deeper understanding of the material. (Author/MLF)

Early childhood practitioners should evaluate whether or not computers contribute to the growth of their students by considering computers in the planning phase of the educational program. The first approach, computer assisted instruction, includes drill and practice programs, tutorials or programmed instruction, and simulations or games. Computer…

In response to the increasing use of computers in school by young children, this paper provides definitions of concepts and discussions of topics related to computers and young children. The first section takes up the issue of computer literacy, describing various uses of the term and discussing the controversy concerning teaching computer…

Parents of 62 children enrolled in a private school for young gifted students completed a questionnaire designed to assess home use of computers, as well as parental concerns and expectations for appropriate concurrent and future computer use in educational settings. Familiarity with computers increased perceptions of their beneficial educational…

Describes the development of an early childhood education course for rural teachers emphasizing: (1) the role of technology in rural children's and teachers' lives; (2) basic computer skills for teachers; (3) developmentally appropriate uses of computers with three- to five-year-olds; and (4) effective integration of computers into early childhood…

A sample of 250 early childhood teachers were surveyed to identify their computer attitudes. Found a general sequence of stages that early childhood teachers go through when implementing the computer into the classroom: a stage of focus on buying computers; a stage of confusion; a stage of pulling it all together; and finally, a stage of full…

Provides background information related to the use of computers in classrooms that have diverse populations including students with disabilities. Offers a rationale for examining structured approaches to teaching computer skills to young children. Describes one such structured approach. (TJQ)

This paper discusses techniques for the preservice teacher to use in planning computer learning experiences for young children. Teachers need to become aware of the functions of the computer, the capabilities of computer technology with young children, and the response of young children to the computer in the learning environment. Teachers should…

These guidelines are designed to give preservice teachers information to use in selecting techniques and planning learning experiences for young children in the microcomputer laboratory. The main purpose of this laboratory experience is for children to develop computer awareness/literacy and keyboard knowledge, and to improve skills in following…

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…

Sixty-five early childhood preservice students were administered the Kolb Learning Style Inventory and a survey to determine computer importance, knowledge, and attitude. The majority of the students were concrete experiential and active experiential. Forty-five percent of the subjects were primarily Divergers with the Accommodator being the…

This paper reviews the literature on the impact of technology on reading instruction, with a specific focus on language development as enhanced by the use of CD-Rom programs. The paper cites a study in which two separate groups, preschool children and third graders, were asked to talk about a story they listened to and saw on CD-Rom, providing…

This report, abstracted from a larger research study on children's emerging literacy, focuses on the use and influence of computers in the education of children seven years old and younger. Highlights include placement and introduction of computers in the classroom; benefits of working in groups; keyboarding; and research on program effectiveness.…

This project trained 52 severely handicapped children (ages 3-12) on communication skills using microprocessor technology. Data analyses showed discernible effect of the additional computer training when compared to regular classroom communication training alone. Effects were strongest on a direct criterion-referenced measure of vocabulary taught.…