Did you know? Children can benefit from using technology in the classroom and expand their learning by using technology-based applications on computers, tablets, or smartboards. One example of a technology-based application is Age of Learning! Here are a few ways educators can implement a healthy, technology-based curriculum, even during a CLASS Program Assessment:

• Use computers or tablets to share videos that help explain topics under discussion, such as the life cycle of a butterfly.
• Use computers or tablets during centers as a choice activity and engage with the children during this usage.
• Use smartboards during guided play with activities such as math games or drawing.
• Put three or four tablets on a table during centers and ask open-ended questions (for example, “What are you learning?”).
• Use the tablets as an opportunity to practice more complex topics, such as language modeling or concept development strategies. Encourage the children to think, make predictions, and comparisons!
• Approach children during their individual time with the technology and help build upon their abilities to complete spelling words and math problems. If they get stuck on a word, phrase, or instruction, help provide additional information about their activity.
• Provide vocabulary related to what children are seeing on the tablets and discuss how these images relate to real life.
• Using computers or tablets in small groups is preferred. If it is necessary to use tablets in a large group setting, be flexible when children show interest in something else.

So, how do these examples translate to successful interactions on some of the CLASS dimensions?

• Concept Development- Educators can integrate Age of Learning activities to the current classroom topic, “Letter of the Week,” or science objectives.
• Concept Development- Educators can facilitate brainstorming and planning, which children can then use with virtual drawings or building platforms to create.
• Positive Climate- Educators will be close by while children use technology, as well as make positive comments about what the children are doing.
• Language Modeling- Educators can converse with the children about their virtual activities.
• Quality of Feedback- Educators can ask children about their actions and thoughts (for example, “Why did you choose that character? How did you create that?”). Educators can then build upon their virtual activities and help while the children use the technology.
• Regard for the Student Perspective- Educators can ensure children have a controlled choice of virtual activities.

Technology-based applications, such as Age of Learning, ABC Mouse, or PBS Kids, are used throughout Pre-K classrooms to enhance learning for children. If educators consistently incorporate these technology strategies, they will help create a productive learning environment that children will become familiar with, while maintaining engaging classroom routines. Make sure not to hide those tablets during CLASS Program Assessments! Educators can incorporate technology into the great work already being done in the classroom.