Publisher's Synopsis
This work shows how Information and Communications Technology (ICT) can contribute to children's learning, how it can be integrated into a play based curriculum and how it relates to key areas of learning such as collaboration, communication, exploration and socio-dramatic play. It outlines the ICT requirements in the UK Foundation Stage Curriculum Guidance, and it examines the international relevance and implications of ICT for young children. The text provides a critical account of the "digital divide", suggesting practical strategies for all the individuals and institutions working towards social justice. It offers guidance for the development of centre based practice and on curriculum integration and the selection of developmentally appropriate educational software. It also explores ergonomic issues, as revealed by research. How should children sit at a computer? For how long? What are the risks? Emphasis is placed on the processes of policy development and the realization of change and guidance is given on how to use development plans and evaluation tools.
