For instance, you see, there’s a major discrepancy when it comes to the way in which your kids use technology. For some, this is the tool that’s keeping them away from creative work or playing outdoors but then, there are others who see massive didactic potential in this. With that in mind and without further ado, here are the top five ways your kids can use technology for learning.
1. Self-paced learning
The first thing that technology provides young kids with is a chance for self-paced learning. For instance, when it comes to foreign language learners, it’s not uncommon for parents to pay for online tutors to instruct their kids. This kind of one-on-one approach is something that they could never get otherwise. In the traditional school system, classes are too big for a teacher to dedicate their time efficiently to each individual learner. On the other hand, when it comes to homeschooling, these online tutors are usually skilled in terms of teaching methodology and the subject matter itself.
2. Learning applications
One more thing you need to keep in mind is the fact that learning applications are really one of the best ways for your kids to acquire new knowledge. First of all, they gamify the learning process by making it appear more engaging, more intriguing, as well as more… well, satisfying. You see, young kids are often needy of instant gratification, which is what progressing through levels and advancing in several directions might provide them with. Just make sure to do your research and pick the right app.
3. Creativity
Another thing your kids can get through the concept of learning is creativity in its truest form. Let’s say that your kid likes to build things or even has the interests of a future designer or an architect. By getting them kinetic sand or wooden cubes, you can give them a chance to further indulge in their hobby/aptitude through play. This way, other than just honing the skill, they’re also having fun by doing it, which provides them with a ton of intrinsic motivation. Keep in mind that with educational toys like a 3D pen you can add technology into the mix. This can make it all even more appealing to your kids.
4. Microlearning
The concept of microlearning is an incredibly handy trend where you set aside a few minutes in order to learn a skill. For instance, you could use it to learn how to tie a bowtie or something similar. This is something that you only need to see once and repeat a couple of times yourself. It’s a simple several-steps-long process that really doesn’t take too long to master. For an adult, this may come as a revelation, however, for a kid that’s growing up in the age of the internet. Such a thing is truly just a matter of prestige.
5. A safe learning space
One of the things that kids get when learning through technology is an isolated learning environment which can be both a good and a bad thing. You see, a kid learning on their own with a toy or an app can either thrive seeing as how they’re left on their own to use the learning tool as they please. Kids often fear being ridiculed or mocked for doing something “improperly” so they avoid doing it, to begin with. Fortunately, technology can give them an isolated learning space and experience. After all, there’s no question embarrassing enough that someone will not ask it in the Google search box.
Conclusion
If there’s one thing you need to deduce from this, it’s the fact that technology is neither good nor bad. What this means is that all you have to do is determine the way in which you’ll allow your kid to use these trends and devices. Naturally, imposing it on them will make them resist almost instinctively but just by providing them with tools and giving them some slight assistance can be quite beneficial for everyone. This is something that you, as a parent, have to take into consideration.