Technologies is a learning area that involves creating solutions to problems or opportunities by applying scientific, technological, engineering, and mathematical knowledge and skills. Technologies can also foster creativity in young children by providing them with opportunities to design, make, and evaluate products, systems, or processes that meet human needs and wants. Technologies can help children develop various skills, such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication (Laverick, 2014).
Technologies help children access and process information from various sources and formats.
Technologies enhance children learning and communication by providing interactive and engaging platforms and tools.
Technologies foster children creativity and innovation by allowing them to design and create their own products and solutions.
Technologies develop children digital literacy and citizenship by teaching them how to use technologies safely, ethically, and responsibly.
Technologies expand children's horizons and perspectives by exposing them to diverse cultures, ideas, and opportunities.
Technologies prepare children for the future by enabling them to adapt and thrive in the digital and global society.
Books, magazines, websites, videos, etc. that can inspire children to learn about different technologies, concepts, or projects. For example, Code.org is a website that features stories, tutorials, and activities related to coding and computer science.
Objects, tools, or kits that can be used to create, test, or demonstrate technologies, such as LEGO bricks, K’NEX rods and connectors, littleBits electronic modules, or Arduino microcontroller boards. These materials can be used to build and program various technological models, such as robots, vehicles, or sensors.
Devices, software, or online platforms that can be used to design, simulate, or control technologies, such as tablets, computers, cameras, sensors, apps, websites, etc. These technologies can be used to create and share technological products, such as videos, podcasts, or presentations.
0-2 years: Provide children with sensory materials, such as blocks, balls, or tubes, that they can manipulate and observe. Encourage them to notice the different shapes, sizes, colors, and textures of the materials. Ask them questions about how they can stack, roll, or connect the materials.
2-3 years: Provide children with simple engineering challenges, such as building a tower, a bridge, or a ramp, that they can solve using different materials. Encourage them to try different ideas, test their solutions, and compare the results. Ask them questions about what they made and why they think it works.
3-5 years: Provide children with coding activities, such as creating a sequence, a loop, or a condition, that they can complete using different tools, such as ScratchJr, Code-a-pillar, or Bee-Bot. Encourage them to use their imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills to create and execute their codes. Ask them questions about what they did and how they can improve their work.
6-8 years: Provide children with digital media activities, such as making a video, a podcast, or a presentation, that they can plan and produce using different technologies, such as tablets, computers, or cameras. Encourage them to use the features and functions of the technologies to enhance their products, such as editing, adding effects, or captions. Ask them questions about what they want to communicate and how they can do it effectively.
Inquiry-based learning: This is the approach of engaging students in asking questions, conducting investigations, collecting and analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and communicating their findings. Inquiry-based learning can help students develop scientific and technological skills, knowledge, and attitudes.
Project-based learning: This is the approach of involving students in authentic and meaningful projects that require them to apply their technological understanding and skills to solve real-world problems or challenges. Project-based learning can help students develop creative thinking, collaboration, and communication skills.
Design thinking: This is the process of solving problems or creating products by using a balance of empathy, creativity, and rationality. Design thinking can help students develop human-centered, innovative, and feasible solutions.
Challenge-based learning: This is the approach of challenging students to identify and address a significant problem or issue that affects their lives or communities. Challenge-based learning can help students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and civic engagement skills.
Flipped classroom: This is the approach of reversing the traditional order of instruction by delivering the content online before the class and using the class time for active learning activities. Flipped classroom can help students prepare for the class, engage in the class, and apply their learning after the class.