Examining Some Common Myths About Computer Use In the Early YearsLinda A. Tsantis, Cynthia J. Bewick,
and Suzanne Thouvenelle
The following seven myths have generated the most
attention and concern:
1. Computers are easy to use.
2. I might do something to break the computer.
3. It’s okay if children know more about computers than teachers do.
4. Computers can provide solutions to any problem encountered in education.
5. All software designated for young children is age appropriate and of high quality.
6. Computers don’t foster prosocial interaction, and will overshadow the use of other classroom materials.
7. As long as children are having fun using the computer that is sufficient reason for use by three-and four-year-olds.
Our interest in examining these myths is the result of many discussions with early childhood educators in classroom settings across the country. Teachers’ concerns about technology tend to fall into two general categories: (1) concerns about their ability to use computers effectively and (2) concerns about the effects of the computers on young children and their education.
The first category focuses on myths that undermine teachers’ confidence in acquiring the skills necessary to use computers effectively and the second reflects teachers’ need to be assured that using computers with young children is the right thing to do.
This article provides an opportunity for you to confront your concerns about the use of technology in the early childhood classroom. You may find that they are more influenced by myths than by fact. We hope that by examining your concerns and the myths that surround computers, you will be encouraged to become a more effective and proactive computer-using educator.
Read more on these myths here:
http://www.naeyc.org/yc/pastissues/2003/november
