Examining Some Common Myths About Computer Use In the Early Years

Author: Tsantis, L.A., Bewick, C.J., Thouvenelle, S.
Publisher: National Association for the Education of Young Children
Publication Date: 2003, November
Full text available online at: http://www.journal.naeyc.org/btj/200311/CommonTechnoMyths.pdf

Abstract (written by WestEd)

The authors debunk seven myths about using computers as educational resources for young children:

1. Computers are easy to use.
   
2. I might do something to break the computer.
   
3. It's okay if children know more about computers than teachers do.
   
4. Computers can provide solutions to any problem encountered in education.
   
5. All software designated for young children is age appropriate and of high quality.
   
6. Computers don't foster prosocial interaction, and will overshadow the use of other classroom materials.
   
7. As long as children are having fun using the computer, that is sufficient reason for use by three- and four-year-olds.

To make effective and appropriate decisions regarding using computers as powerful educational resources, teachers need accurate information rather than myths.