Pros and Cons of Implementing Mobile Computing Devices in the Classroom

 If, in a magical world, my classroom was provided with a set of mobile computing devices I would have several reasons to be excited and several reasons to be concerned. To begin with, I fear many educators may look at this technology as a cure-all for what our students are “lacking in today’s schools.” In contrast of what I believe many parents and educators think, I do not feel that giving a child an e-reader or ipod will turn them into lovers of reading or even improve their reading magically. Yes, it is true that the more children read the better readers they will become and this is obviously influenced by their access to reading material. However, truly fluent readers increase their reading ability through discussion of the reading material, recall, and even prediction with the help of picture walks. I would have to be very careful to ensure that my students are still interacting with one another. In early childhood classrooms, interacting via computers can be tricky. If the students are sharing a device that remains in the classroom they at least have the opportunity to build on social skills through compromise, collaboration, and sharing and taking turns. I would also need to be sure to balance the time my students have using the mobile computing devices and learning through manipulatives and physical play. The website http://www.netc.org/earlyconnections/preschool/technology.html has some good points about the effect flashy imagery and fast-paced computer programming can have on a young child. How can we expect our young children to sit through standard old circle time discussing shapes and colors if they can see them flash all fancy like and excitingly on their handheld. A good balance is necessary to help children learn effectively through a variety of media and nothing can really replace hands-on learning experiences. Of course, we cannot rule out the possibility that perhaps some computer programs DO a better of teaching some things to SOME children but when teachers provide various media to learn from they are increasing the likelihood that they will reach ALL of their students.

 The advantage of using this technology in the classroom is that it is nice to have something flashy but educational to enhance the students’ learning. It can be tricky to be incessantly creative and energetic enough to reach every child in the way they need to be reached. Technology such as handheld computers provides a plethora of options as far as programming for introducing material and sustaining the students’ attention. Also, and I admit this can be a frustration at times, a limited number of devices may require the children to share or take turns with the devices. This is what I think early childhood education is all about: building social skills while developing a love for learning.

 I would use mobile computing devices in my classroom to provide my students with updated, relevant material. It is truly a delight to be able to provide my students with videos, games, and reading material relevant to what they are curious about. Much the Leapsters available for preschool aged children, children (all people really) learn best when they are presented with material in a variety of ways and flashy, digital imagery is definitely an enhancement.