Integrating Appropriate Software in the Pre-School Curriculum.

Many educators have concerns about integrating appropriate software in the pre-school curriculum and about what to consider when selecting this technology. This paper presents a criteria for selecting appropriate software for early childhood education. The software that is selected should allow children to explore it and the programs should be child-initiated. Educators should consider the software's age appropriateness, whether it allows independence, its content, and whether it can hold a child's interest. The software should not be isolated but should support all areas of interest--such as blocks, sand, science, dramatic play--and activities that go on in the classroom. Educators should decide on a theme, select appropriate theme-related software, and then develop the activities that will follow. The computer should be seen as another positive tool that can be used to enhance learning and development, and educators should continue to learn about the benefits of this technology for education. (AEF)