Bringing new teaching methods and technology into kindergarten can really change how students learn and grow. According to Fullan and Langworthy (2014), using fresh teaching approaches, especially those that involve technology, helps make learning deeper and more engaging. For young students, this means using interactive tools and activities that make learning fun and hands-on. For instance, we might use educational apps that let students explore and solve problems in creative ways, making their learning experiences richer and more meaningful.
Bloom's Taxonomy, explained by Huitt (2011), gives us a guide for how to build up students’ thinking skills step by step. In a kindergarten class, this means starting with simple tasks like recognizing letters and sounds, then moving on to more complex activities like using those letters to form words or sentences. By planning activities that match these stages, we can help students grow their thinking skills in a way that’s right for their age.
Hobbs (2011) talks about how important digital and media literacy is for students today. Even young learners need to start getting comfortable with basic tech skills, like using a tablet or understanding online safety. This way, they’re not only learning how to use technology but also how to think critically about the information they find. For example, using apps that teach letter sounds or basic math in a fun way can help students get a good start with digital skills.
Rogers (1963) introduces the idea that people adopt new technologies at different rates. In our schools, some teachers and parents might be excited to try out new tech tools right away, while others might be more cautious. Knowing this can help us plan how to introduce new tools smoothly. For example, we might start by having a few enthusiastic teachers use a new app and share their experiences with others. This way, everyone can feel more comfortable and supported when trying out new technologies.
As a kindergarten teacher, understanding these ideas helps me create a learning environment that’s both exciting and effective. By using new teaching methods and tech tools thoughtfully, I can make learning more engaging for my students and help them build important skills from an early age. By recognizing how people adapt to new technologies, I can work with my colleagues and families to make sure everyone is on board and ready to support our students’ learning adventures.
References
Fullan, M. & Langworthy, M. (2014). A Rich Seam: How new pedagogies find deep learning. London: Pearson. Retrieved from https://www.pearson.com/content/dam/one-dot-com/onedotcom/global/Files/aboutpearson/innovation/open-ideas/ARichSeamEnglish.
Hobbs, R. (2011). Empowering learners with digital and media literacy. Knowledge Quest, 39(5), 12-17. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.
Huitt, W. (2011). Bloom et al.'s taxonomy of the cognitive domain. Educational Psychology Interactive. Valdosta, GA: Valdosta State University. Retrieved from http://www.edpsychinteractive.org/topics/cognition/bloom.
Kuhn, M. S. (2008). Connecting depth and balance in class. Learning & Leading with Technology, 36(1), 18-21. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.
Rogers, E. M. (1963). The adoption process II. Journal of Cooperative Extension, 1(2), 69-75. Retrieved from https://archives.joe.org/joe/1963summer/1963-2-a2.pdf.
Brittani, I thoroughly enjoyed reading your perspective concerning the articles we read along with your personal experience. In my reflection I did not consider specific apps that students can use on their tablets or Chromebooks. This made me realize how much we use specific programs and tools. Clever, for instance, is our system wide app that allows students to safely access instructional programs like Lexia or McGraw Hill. Further down in your blog I found it interesting when you suggested that the teachers that show more excitement can be the ones that are willing to test the technology or program. This is a wonderful way to approach technology but also not force the cautious teachers into uncomfortable situations. Teachers are learners as well and we can all learn a great deal from each other and our experiences.
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