ICT In The Early Years

Our children are born into a world surrounded by sophisticated technology. Their spontaneous enthusiasm and curiosity to explore this world can provide boundless opportunities for Early Year practitioners to use ICT in Foundation Stage (3-5 years) settings.

The provision of high quality computer software and innovative, exciting technology is certainly desirable for the development of a wide range of skills and concepts. However, it is when we consider ICT in wider terms of supporting children’s cognitive and physical development through the Six Areas of Learning, the outdoor and indoor curriculum, themed approaches and role-play, that practitioners can really make an exciting and stimulating difference to children’s growth.

The best Foundation Stage settings are already providing a wealth of planned experiences through play and exploration of the environment. By using ICT to support and enhance existing good practice, the technology becomes a tool for experiential development, not a bolt-on imposition.

Nothing can, or should, replace the sheer experiential joy of crunching Autumn leaves underfoot on an outdoor walk. However, the use of a digital camera by children can enhance this experience and support the ‘here and now’ cognitive development, through remembering, showing and telling, immediately afterwards. Already, young children are building an archive of sensory experience with which they can extend their understanding of the world.

When working with staff, we will bring a range of toys and equipment, to provide a ‘hands-on’ stimulus for discussion around supporting story work, themed approaches and role-play activities. We will then identify those crucial ‘next steps’ which skilled practitioners use when working alongside children, to facilitate their conceptual, cognitive development. Finally, we will work with the Gatehouse document, ‘ICT in the Foundation Stage’, which provides specific, comprehensive advice and guidance on the specific ways that ICT supports the Six Areas of Learning, themed work and opportunities for role-play.

One of the most exciting and validatory developments now occurring in Primary education, is the adaptation of planning to the Six Areas of Learning throughout Key Stages One and Two. We look forward to supporting practitioners in this approach, which promises to yield a more creative and holistic approach to learning, with the child at its centre.

If you are interested, either in Gale working with your school (or cluster group of Early Years’ practitioners) or in obtaining an electronic copy of ‘ICT in the Foundation Stage’, please telephone the company office or complete the online booking form.

Page Updated: May 2006