Argues that, while software for preschoolers does not use the potential of the computer as effectively as it might, observations with children using the LOGO language with simplified graphics suggest gains may be made in the areas of cognitive development, problem solving, creativity, and social and language skills. (Author/KS)

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…

Advocating preschool children's introduction to microcomputers, this document describes the advantages of computer learning for the child, academic skills that can be taught, results of an experiment that field tested microcomputers in a nursery school, and guidelines for parents to use when selecting software for their children. An introductory…

Describes study that was conducted to determine whether four- and five-year-old preschoolers could be taught reading skills with computer-assisted instruction, and whether they could learn basic computer literacy skills without direct instruction and drill. Software is described, and the pretest/posttest single group design is explained. (16…

Describes preschoolers' collaboration during free play in a computer lab, focusing on the computer's contribution to active, peer-mediated learning. Discusses these observations in terms of Parten's insights on children's social play and Vygotsky's socio-cultural learning theory, noting that the children scaffolded each other's growing computer…