Prompt 5: Scientific Thinking and Technology

            I have not observed a lot of science materials in my placement. I have noticed that my placement focuses on literacy and language development. The only form of science learning I have seen in the classroom would be from books. On occasion, the teacher will read a book about a different animal species, but they usually end up creating a piece of art from these stories instead of a science lesson. Due to the lack of science materials, my classroom does not have a science center. The Bullard text discusses a study that found only 50% of early childhood classrooms had a science center. This chapter also goes on to describe the different types of science centers a teacher could create. Some of these centers include: a multitude of science boxes with materials focusing on a certain topic, inquiry based center where the children focus on questions or answers to the questions, a discovery center where children are asked to explore different concepts, and a center that uses different inquiry tools that children can use throughout the classroom. Viadero’s article states, “I think a lot of preschool teachers aren’t aware of the fact that preschoolers can figure out things like they do, or make predictions as they do.” A lot of educators are unaware of the potential that students have in the classroom. Students are curious learners and it is important to use this curiosity while they are young so they can grow as learners.

            I have yet to see any technology being used in my classroom. The most technology I have seen consisted of my teacher taking out her phone and taking a picture of the class. My classroom focuses on books, letter/word activities, and making different crafts. The Bullard text describes how technology can be used in the classroom for students to create stories, illustrate ideas, produce presentations, conduct research, and engage with others through electronic means. I personally believe that technology should be incorporated occasionally in an appropriate manner, but not all the time.

            I think the role of technology in preschool is to aid students. It allows the students to become more engaged in the material in a different style. I think technology is a great way for students to share the work they complete in the classroom.  The Bullard text discusses how digital cameras can be used to record and document the children’s learning. These pictures can then be displayed to parents, in portfolios, as decoration, etc. The Virtual Preschool article discusses how it is now an option for students to have their own “virtual school” at home. The program includes digital learning materials, activity guides, learning analytics, and “homeroom teachers” that are all available online. This means that the students can engage in a preschool program without leaving their homes. I was extremely intrigued by this article. It is hard for me to wrap my head around the idea of school becoming a technology based philosophy. I think the most important aspect in preschool is to have students playing and learning with other children around them.