TITLE:
ICT Integration in Preschool Classes: Examples of Practices in Greece
AUTHORS:
Kleopatra Nikolopoulou
KEYWORDS:
ICT (Information and Communication Technology), Computer, Preschool, Kindergarten, Greece
JOURNAL NAME:
Creative Education,
Vol.5 No.6,
April
25,
2014
ABSTRACT:
This paper presents
findings from a research project regarding Information and Communication
Technology (ICT) integration and use in 17 kindergartens in Greece. The
main parameters of the study were the natural classroom environment (without
artificial intervention) and the voluntary participation of early childhood
teachers. The data were collected by interviews with the teachers and class observations. The most frequently
reported reasons for computer use were the acquisition/ development of
language and fine motor skills, as well as its contribution as an incentive in
children’s learning. Examples of practices in relation to these reasons are
presented. The computer was mainly used during the hour of free activities. The
role of early childhood teachers, in the whole process of ICT integration, is
also discussed.