SPECIAL SECTION:
One exciting feature that will dramatically enhance technology
capabilities in the classroom is the integration of 5G technology.
Predicted to be ubiquitous by 2020, 5G technology allows for
data speeds almost 1,000 percent faster than 4G, empowering
educators with the ability to provide a seamless platform for
limitless learning. 5G will allow for applications to run without
fail or interruption, download speeds to increase dramatically,
and a significantly greater number of devices to be able to
connect without delays. Just another exciting way technology is
expected to enhance learning.
EARLY EDUCATION
The next generation is starting to have children. This
generation grew up in the 1980s and early 1990s, when
televisions were “old news” and computers
were just starting to creep into people’s
homes. Gen Yers, as they’ve been named,
can still vividly remember the sound
of the dial-up tone as they anticipated
the number of emails that would rush
into their inbox once the modem finally
connected. For these new parents, the
answer to any question is, and almost
always was, just a click away. These parents
are aware of the benefits of early childhood
learning and of the plethora of options
available to them. In addition, shifting
demographic patterns, with an increase
in two working parents and single-parent
households, are calling for affordable
options for child care.
As the importance and positive impact
that early childhood education has on
toddlers is realized, the demand for early
education options continues to increase
and expand offerings. A few key focus
areas have been identified as important
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EDUCATION
initiatives that will shape the young
minds of the future, including early
literacy, technology in the classroom,
and emotional, cognitive, social early
learning (ECSEL).
Early literacy teaches children letter
recognition, word sounds, vocabulary,
and awareness of storytelling. Each of
these key fundamental elements helps
lay the groundwork for success in reading
in the future. Early literacy programs
can also be found at local libraries
as a way for parents to engage their
children even if they are not enrolled in a
preschool program.
Technology is something our children
must learn and understand to succeed
today. But it is important for technology
in the classroom to be used properly and
not abused. Early childhood educators
are combining technologies with other
types of play and hands-on activities to
get the most out of the tools available to them. Such tools allow
for young learners to work cooperatively on learning activities
with the use of technology to enhance their lessons.
ECSEL focuses on teaching children how to understand and
manage emotions to become more confident, resilient, and
understanding, which are all critical to the success of a young
learner. Laying the foundation to build an early understanding
of feelings and emotions allows children to better recognize
emotions in others and how to cope with them. These valuable
life skills add a tremendous amount of value to a young child’s
understanding of healthy relationships with his/her peers. ■