EDX3270 Assignment 1 annotations

1. Annotation 1: Multimedia tech increases literacy speed in kids
Hart, R. (2009). Multimedia tech increases literacy speed in kids. Retrieved March 6,
2012 from ABC News:
http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=news/drive_to_discover&id=7144362
Richard Hart articulates the way technology can be used to increase student’s literacy
development. After a study was completed with eighty different schools across New
York the evidence showed students with technology based learning knew on average
7.5 more letters then those who did not. The conclusion made about the success was
related to the students enjoying learning, being involved, giving students power and
creativity of personal learning.
Although the children may know more letters, are they able to write them? This idea
is good in theory, but what learning is being substituted?

2. Annotation 2: Bett Award 2009 – early years solutions category winner
Harnessingtechnology. (2009, May 15). Bett Award 2009 – early years solutions
category winner [video file]. Video posted to:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MUEYgvQzzgg
The Youtube clip was the 2009 BETT award winner for Early Years Solutions.’ The clip
examines the ICT program Espresso, and its practice within Bedford Primary School.
Moreover, Espresso is an interactive, engaging way to involve students of all ages in
a variety of ways. Footage showed students using the program through the
interactive whiteboard for letter writing, phonics, editing and playing games
independently and as a group.
I believe it is important to enhance the use of the interactive whiteboard and
continue to make effective ways to engage students, while also being realistic with
the time restraints for planning lessons as a teacher. Espresso is a good example of
how this can be possible.

3. Annotation 3: Ban computers from school until children reach age 9, says expert
Henry, J. (2010, June 13). Ban computers from school until children reach age 9, says
expert. The Telegraph. Retrieved from:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/primaryeducation/7823259/Ban-computers-fro
News writer from the Telegraph discusses the need to stop children using computers
until age nine, as the brain is not fully developed until then. New curriculum
developed is recommending introducing ICT to children at 22 months, according to
research this will stunt attention span abilities. According to Henry, an education
correspondent, although there is student interest and some seen benefits in using ICT,
the downfall is much greater and the technology should be prolonged until age nine to
ensure full development.
If ICT is enacted correctly there are many beneficial outcomes, but research needs to
be constantly reviewed and used effectively in order to ensure learning is enhanced
and not stopped. Furthermore, especially in the early years ICT needs to be limited to
appropriate amounts.

4. Annotation 4: ICT in Early Years – where do I start?
ICT in Early Years – where do I start? (2012). Retrieved
March 6, 2012 from RM Education:
http://www.rm.com/Primary/InTheNews/Article.asp?cref=MNEWS765894
According to RM, an education ICT supplier since 1973
(RM education, 2012), constructing ICT within early
years education is imperative. Moreover, research
shows building technology into everyday life enhances
learning, and a variety of practical examples are
elaborated through the learning areas within the
curriculum. Furthermore, implementing ICT within the
curriculum enhances new interests while meeting the
necessary outcomes.
I believe ICT can be effective within the early years
education, but it is important to ensure the ICT is used
to enhance the learning. Furthermore, it should not be
used as a ‘babysitting tool’ to keep children quite, for
example playing computer games all afternoon.

5. Annotation 5: Infusing ICT use within the early years of elementary education
Jones, A. J. n.d. Infusing ICT use within the early years of elementary education.
Retrieved March 19, 2012 from: http://crpit.com/confpapers/CRPITV34Jones.pdf
Jones from the University of Melbourne discusses in his research that ICT is often used
as an excuse for children to learn alone. Furthermore, often children in the early years
are playing games and the information is not effective and can be dangerous for
physical, emotional and intellectual learning. Although he does state ICT can be
effective if teachers choose correct programs to enhance learning through concrete
and manipulative learning while ensuring the curriculum is followed.
I agree that ICT can be negative if inappropriately used, but when it is incorporated
into the curriculum to enhance learning and interest for children in the early years it
can be an effective tool for both students and teachers.

6. Annotation 6: Technology in the classroom
Lam, J. N., (2012). Technology in the classroom. Retrieved March 19, 2012
from: http://www.teach-nology.com/tutorials/techinclass/
According to Lam, technology is a form of literacy, as it requires individuals
to learn and comprehend in order to create successfully. Although it is
stated that ICT is an effective way of improving academics and learning,
often poor families fall behind due to minimal resources. After enacting
the ‘No Child is Left Behind Act’ established in 2001 more attention was
considered in these circumstances. Furthermore, things like e-learning has
helped reach more students in remote areas and allow for more students
to receive high education. Hence creating capable learners through things
like research, management of programs, publishing and communicating.
I believe technology is an excellent resource, and as it enhances more
students will feel included and more
knowledge will be established.

7. Annotation 7: Middle-class angst over technology in the early years
Learner, S. (2011, Jun 7). Middle-class angst over technology in the early years.
Retrieved March 6, 2012 from the guardian:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2011/jun/07/early-years-anxiety-digital-technolo
Sue Learner examines the effects of technology in the early years development.
Moreover, in Britain a kindergarten implemented I-pads to enhance literacy,
numeracy and ICT skills. This sparked criticism, as it is thought this could hinder
reading and writing skills and create lazy children. Furthermore, an author of
children’s technology stated that the hesitance by parents in regards to ICT could be
caused from a lack of understanding.
Although a lack of understanding from critics could be a cause for concern, it is still
important to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages for ICT, and come to a
conclusion that is best for child development.

8. Annotation 8: Multiliteracies and technology
Ljungdahl, L. (2011). Multiliteracies and technology. In Winch, G., Johnston, R. R.,
March, P., & Holliday, M. Literacy (4th Ed) (pp. 399-402). NSW: Oxford.
According to Lesley Ljungdahl technology is an effective way to enhance literacy
skills and make connections to the curriculum in an engaging manner. Although
many positives to technology are discussed, there are negatives that are also
highlighted when dealing with technology. Moreover, the need for knowledgeable
teachers can eliminate these disadvantages.
Often when teaching different skills within education there are dangers that
students need to be educated about and discuss how to deal with these
circumstances. Therefore, it is the educators responsibility to model and explain
information to the students to create understanding and ability to use the content in
all situations.

9.
Annotation 9: Using ICT in the early years
Morgan, A., & Siraj-Blatchford, J. (2010). Using ICT in the early years. Retrieved
March 19, 2011 from:
www.teachingsolutions.com.au/LiteratureRetrieve.aspx?ID=39337
According to Morgan and Siraj-Blatchford ICT has increased in use in the early years
home environment due to parent high expectations. Although ICT can be effective
and enhance learning and skills, when used inappropriately it can be detrimental and
cause lifelong problems. According to the writers it is essential for ICT to be
monitored and used within reason to make effective.
ICT can be both positive and negative completely depending on the environment it is
used in, hence it is essential for teachers and parents to be appropriately educated
within technology to ensure learning is maximised and does not become damaging.

10. Annotation 10: Smarter games dumber children
Poulter, S. (2008, Jan 11). Smarter games dumber children, The Courier-Mail, 12.
Sean Poulter from the Courier Mail examines young children playing video games.
Moreover, research indicates the age of children playing video games has lowered.
According to technology expert’s, this is concerning as computer games affect brain
development through; shortening attention span, creating skewed reasoning skills and
affecting children’s ability to learn. Contrary to these remarks Cartoon Network
representative argued that technology produces many benefits, and technology play
should be embraced.
Although technology is beneficial, a balance of when and how children interact with
video games is crucial. If students only play video games this will be detrimental to their
brain development, but if it is used in moderation as a winding down tool I believe this is
okay.