Today I am delighted to introduce you to Jacqui Murray, the Tech Teacher, who is able to answer all your questions about using technology in schools.
Jacqui’s blog Ask a Tech Teacher is very informative. It is packed with helpful advice for both teachers and parents on children’s use of technology and the suitability of tools and software for use in different situations and with different age groups, especially in the classroom. If I need to know anything about technology, Jacqui’s blog is an excellent resource.
As Jacqui is often asked questions about teaching Kindergartners to Tech, a topic that is dear to her, this is the topic of discussion in this post. Please feel free to ask Jacqui any additional questions you may have in the comment section at the end!
Note: Jacqui is based in the US and the kindergarteners she refers to are 5-to-6-year-olds.
Welcome to readilearn, Jacqui. Over to you.
When I started teaching technology almost twenty years ago, I taught K-8, three classes in each grade every week. I was buried under lesson plans, grades, and parent meetings. I remember suggesting to my principal that he ease my schedule by eliminating tech for kindergartners. They wouldn’t miss anything if I started them in first or second grade.
And back then, that was true.
Even a decade ago, technology was an extra class in student schedules where now, it is a life skill. Today, my teacher colleagues tell me kids arrive at school already comfortable in the use of iPads and smartphones, doing movements like swipe, squeeze, and flick better than most adults. Many teachers, even administrators, use that as the reason why technology training isn’t needed for them, arguing, “They’re digital natives.”
Continue reading: Why Kindergartners Must Learn Technology – Readilearn
Nice post on using latest technologies in kindergartens.
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Fascinating post, and so great to see Jacqui here on your blog, Norah. A woman of so many talents. Since I have a load of grandchildren 4-9 years old, I’m reading Jacqui’s suggestions carefully.
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We can’t keep them off of digital devices anymore. Might as well embrace them, don’t you think?
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Definitely! 🙂
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Thanks, Pam. Jacqui is multi-talented isn’t she? I’m sure you’ll find Jacqui’s advice very helpful with your grandchildren.
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By the way, Norah. I answered 13 of the 14 questions. I can finish them tomorrow and email to you.
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I see another interview in the future!
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Thank you, Jacqui. I’m working on it!
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Awesome. Thanks, Miriam. I’ve just resent the questions. 🙂
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I got them, thank you, Norah. 🙂
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This is a great post, Norah. Thank you for posting it. Our schools do start technology from Kindergarten. I just visited a kindergarten classroom. I asked the teacher aide of what the students were doing, she asked me to ask a student. I think the student know more than she!
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That’s a good story. I often invite parent volunteers in K-2 classes. But they’re intimidated by the technology! It’s actually a great way to get tech basics–by helping at such a young level.
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Yes, exactly, Jacqui. They have no fear of “breaking” the devices. When we implement the technology, the initiate stage was having a computer lab with the Apple II E, and one or two computers in each classroom. One teacher only turned hers on and off for students to use them.
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That makes me smile, Miriam. I think your statement supports Jacqui’s point. 🙂
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Have passed on this great link to a dear friends son who has just starting teaching tech in a Sydney primary school … I’m sure he’ll find it useful, thanks Norah!
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I’d love to compare stories with him. I wonder if things are different in Sydney.
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He just started a couple of months ago so it’s all new to him but he totally loves it … will see if I can link you two up for a chat.
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What a great idea. 🙂
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Awesome. Thanks for spreading the word and supporting another young teacher with helpful advice, Kate. 🙂
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we all need networks!
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We do. 🙂
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