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| In
the Classroom: Using Computers to Develop Preschoolers' Social Skills Computer use can be a positive experience, even for preschool students. Children using developmentally appropriate software have shown gains in intelligence, nonverbal skills, structural knowledge, long-term memory and complex manual dexterity. However, one of the concerns about computer use for preschoolers is that it might isolate children from one another and negatively impact social development. In fact, computer use may actually improve social skills. Research has shown that students working at side-by-side computers will interact and help each other. When students work in pairs at the computer, it provides an opportunity for children to talk with each other about their work. Through this interaction, social skills can be developed during computer time. Children's interactions while working at the computer may improve a wide range of social skills, including:
For example, children working together on one computer need to discuss issues such as who will work the mouse and who will use the keyboard. Children also must discuss what software they want to use. To maximize student interactions at the computer, teachers should monitor from a distance. Studies have shown that monitoring students too closely can reduce discussion among students. While teacher intervention is occasionally necessary, teachers should allow children to work on their own as much as possible. When a teacher must intervene, the focus should be on teaching conflict resolution strategies that will help the children solve problems on their own in the future. Source:
For
more information: Facts in Action, May/June 2003 |
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