ECE 620 Topic 1 DQ 1

What are the potential pros and cons of using technology to support phonemic awareness and phonics development in early childhood education?

Technology today has exposed both children and adults to a considerable range of opportunities that allow for learning and the production of knowledge to occur in a variety of ways. According to Painter; Whiting, and Wolters (2005), two issues confront teachers with regard to the Information Age. First, technology has brought new demands on now educators facilitate learning opportunities within the classroom setting. Students present an accelerated understanding of technology and have experienced a variety of technology resources at home. According to the B:S. Bureau of the Census (2003), 57% of children ages 7-17 have access to a computer at home to complete schoolwork. The second issue presented by Painter et.al (2005), is that teachers need to adapt traditional instructional methods to incorporate technology to prepare students with problem-solving skills for the workplace. Current research and government findings have indicated ·that today’ s students are not adequately prepared to compete in the international job market (North Central Regional Educational Laboratory, 2005).

In recent years it has become a necessity for teachers to adapt instruction and modify planning in their efforts to prepare all students for success in education. Research shows that no single instructional program meets the needs of all learners or the needs of an individual over time. Today’ s students enter school presenting diverse needs. Due to the various learning styles present in any given general education classroom, Hill-Clarke and Robinson (2003) affirm that teachers must be multi-faceted in their teaching style to ensure academic success for all students. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 1997 states that students with disabilities should be included in general education settings if that setting presents the least restrictive environment for that student. This presents a significant challenge to general education teachers who now face the task of supporting the needs of the general and special education population within the same classroom. Erickson and Koppenhaver (2007) state that students with disabilities differ from their general education peers in six different ways. These six areas include communication, cognition, physical abilities, senses, affect, and attention. Integrating technology in the classroom provides educators with a means to deliver instruction to meet a variety of learning needs, specifically visual, auditory, and tactile needs.

Ripley, A. (2008). Using Technology to Develop Early Phonological Awareness Skills (5-2008 ed.). NY.