Technology in the Preschool Classroom

Tech Usage vs. Integration using Interactive Screens Have you been trying to integrate technology into your classroom? Did you know to truly integrate technology into the classroom rather than just use technology that’s available in your immediate surrounding, students must have an active role in manipulating the technology. The graphic below illustrates the difference between simply using technology in the classroom and true technology integration. Heick, T. (2016, May 6). The Difference Between Technology Use And Technology Integration. Retrieved from https://www.teachthought.com/technology/difference-technology-use-technology-integration/ One way to actually integrate technology into your classroom is by creating lessons using interactive whiteboards. Not every classroom may have a SMARTboard but there are other interactive websites and software that can be used to create a similar screen. Classroom Screen  is one web 2.0 tool that allows educators to create le...

What is a Virtual Assistant & Can I have one?!       There are many different devices and apps that can be used in the classroom to enhance instruction and to save instructional time. One device that can be used in the classroom with young children is a Virtual Assistant. Virtual assistants are smart speakers that can be used for a variety of purposes. Teachers can use the Virtual Assistant to set a timer quickly when they may not be available to press a button. Teachers can also use the device to coordinate their schedules and add events to their calendars to stay organized. Students can even use the speaker! They can ask the speaker questions, which enhances language and literacy opportunities. Another amazing benefit of the smart speaker is the opportunity for assessment. Children can play games in which they answer questions and receive immediate, self-correcting feedback from the speaker as they work to review newly acquired information. For many studen...