Advantages of growing up in the Digital Era.
When both parents and, or educators are aware and educated on the subject exposing children to technology and media can be very beneficial. Technology should not replace real-life, hands-on activites, physical activity, or conversation, but rather be a helpful tool in expanding one's educational process and connections with others. When used correctly technology can expand a child's cognitive abilities, for example, screen media can show children things such as animals, people and places that they could not experience in person. While many worry that technology erases a child's sense of creativity and imagination,digital interactive media can work simultaneously to increase these abilities. For example there thousands of interactive apps that give a child the ability to explore different aspects of art and music, such as listening, and "composing" pieces of music using a variety of different instruments, or using touch screens to explore color, and shapes. The use of educational media, such as certain television shows, or even interacting with students using a "Smartboard" keeps students engaged and interested in the subject matter being taught. It's expanding these children's opportunities and experiences in learning in a positive light, that well help the children in this era grow.
Sources:
NAEYC, Technology and Interactive Media as Tools in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth to Ages 8. 2012. National Association for Education of Young Children. Web. 27 Sept. 2013
Sources:
NAEYC, Technology and Interactive Media as Tools in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth to Ages 8. 2012. National Association for Education of Young Children. Web. 27 Sept. 2013