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How to Power Up Your Child's Education with New Technology
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Smartphones, tablets, computers and other technological tools are part of everyone’s lives today. Kids, some even as young as 18 months, use smartphones and tablets frequently for entertainment and learning.
Since children use computers, smartphones, and other devices at home, at school, and even during their after-school robotics classes on a regular basis now, it is best to teach them ways to correctly use technology to explore the world, make sense of what they know, and interact with their peers.
Here are six ways you can incorporate technology into your kids’ education to maximize their learning experiences and potential:
Stay updated on how schools use technology to educate students
Children spend more time in school than at home five days a week. You should, therefore, know how technology is being used in school to support and supplement students’ learning experiences.
Computer Science – a Welcome Addition to the School Curriculum
Computer science is a subject that all students take today. In this subject, students are taught the fundamentals of using computers, how to operate them, and the capabilities and limitations of modern computers. They are also introduced to algorithmic problem solving and coding.
If your children are taking up this subject, they will learn how to use computers to solve mathematical problems. They will also gain other skills that will help them prepare for more advanced courses and other tech-related activities.
ICT and Teaching
Many schools have already integrated information and communications technology (ICT) into the day-to-day rhythm of teaching.
Most teachers now use videos as part of their instructional materials. Many teachers also use smart boards instead of chalkboards to help foster interactive learning inside their classrooms.
In certain schools, students are already using cloud-based software to write and submit their essays. More and more institutes are investing in smartbooks which allow students to read using smartphones and tablets in school and at home.
With e-learning, students are introduced to innovative learning strategies that may become the norm in the future.
As a parent, you have to know which kinds of technology are being used in your kids’ school and how students are using them. By doing so, you will know which ones you should encourage your children to use at home and what you can introduce to your children to supplement their learning.
Let your kids use a tablet or laptop for note-taking
If the school permits students to bring devices, allow your kids to bring a laptop, tablet, or smartphone which they can use to take down notes and to even record lessons.
By using such devices, your children will have tidier, more organized notes. They will also have an easier time searching for certain texts which they have to study. However, you also need to impress upon them their need to adhere to school policies regarding bringing in and using such devices on school premises.
Install educational apps in the mobile devices your kids use
Your children will also learn more when their smartphones and tablets have the right apps. With the right fun educational apps, kids will develop more skills and gain new knowledge they can apply in school and everyday living.
Some of the most educational apps for primary students are:
- BrainPOP Jr.
- iBooks
- iWriteWords
- Math Ninja
- Rover
- Story Creator
Encourage your kids to explore the World Wide Web
The Internet is a treasure trove of information. Your kids will expand their knowledge if they use it regularly for research, additional reading or to simply learn new things.
By allowing your kids to explore educational sites or even just Google, they won’t have to rely on their teachers, textbooks, and other printed materials for their stock knowledge.
However, you have to ensure that your children won’t come across and access “dangerous” websites. You can do this by using an Internet filter. If your kids will be using Google, turn on its safe search filtering feature.
You also need to warn them that not all site links that appear in the search results are reliable ones since they will be getting all search results featuring both correct and inaccurate information.
Invest in a 3D printer
With a 3D printer, your kids can create prototypes for their design ideas and usable objects for science experiments and for daily use. Children can only use this device to create solid geometric shapes to help them understand mathematical concepts.
3D printing offers kids a variety of benefits which include:
- Improving creativity and imagination
- Promoting problem-solving skills
- Complementing the STEM curriculum
- Building familiarity with a device that will become commonplace in the future
Enroll your kids in STEM-focused after-school programs
If your kids are really interested in robotics, coding, 3D printing, app development, and other STEM-related subjects, look for and enroll them in the appropriate after-school learning programs. These interactive classes allow students to learn and have fun at the same time so your kids will certainly love them.
Under such programs, your children will gain more skills and knowledge about the particular knowledge area or piece of technology they are fascinated with. They will also discover more relevant applications which they can use now and in the future.
The tips above will enable you to help your kids use technology for learning and to keep up with their school work. More importantly, you are instilling in them the importance of keeping pace with the fast-changing world of technology – something that will greatly benefit them in the tech-driven future.
To know more about our STEM-focused after-school programs, give us a call on +9714-4433849 +97155-8103057. You may also find a Premier Genie office near you by getting in touch with us via our Contact Us page.
