The iPad and tablets allow for incredible new forms of learning. They can help us increase engagement and creativity and comprehension. The touch-screen model makes programs like iBook act so real, and the interface is so intuitive that it almost seems like we're reading a real book. And this is where I keep going back to my Ed psych 101 course with questions.

Isn't there a stage in early childhood development where kids don't know the difference between abstract notions and real objects? For example, one where they think the apple on the page is a real apple, or that if they close their eyes they really do become invisible?

Which leads me to, does learning about objects and physical phenomenon in a virtual world (iPad) translate to understanding in the real world? Is it better for a kid to learn about shapes by playing with virtual blocks or real blocks? If they learn in a virtual world, can they then do that in the real world? It seems that these types of questions will help us determine if there is such a thing as the "right" age to start kids on computers, tablets, smart phones, etc.

Of course, the bigger question is, with all of the "work" we all do on computers, using the computer's processor to enhance our own capabilities, which then produce real objects (i.e. computer-aided drafting and design, statistical analysis, etc.), is work done on a computer just as "real" as work done in the physical world?

This is a great group of educators, and I would love to hear your thought on any of these questions.

Stuart

Tags: Ralston, Stuart, best, educational, future, iBooks, iPad, policy, practices, psychology, More…tablets, tech, technology, theory

Views: 255

Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

It would depend of the students learning style. Kinesthetic learners would probably benefit more from hands on learning about 3D objects

Looks like I'm not the only one wondering about the right age for kids with tablets.

From the American Academy of Pediatrics: http://n.pr/p6QVtT

The iPad is a great additional to our bag of tricks in the classroom, and although it is so addictive with its virtual apps, we shouldn't toss out the old-school tools that definitely have their place. Sometimes I long for the old chalkboards with the white chalk and dusty erasers. A small child might learn to manipulate the building blocks on an iPad, but it cannot replace the true feel, sound and texture of the block itself.

RSS

Report

Win at School

Commercial Policy

If you are representing a commercial entity, please see the specific guidelines on your participation.

Badge

Loading…

Follow

Awards:

© 2024   Created by Steve Hargadon.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service