Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Seven key Reforms for a New Literacy of Technology

The Alliance for Childhood has published an article noting key reforms that we, as teachers, should follow in order to successfully teach technology to children. As an early childhood educator I believe that the reforms that they mention are really critical to children's learning with technology. Especially, where they discuss creativity, because children have the right to express their selves and being creative allows them to do that. The seven key reforms are located in chapter one of the Tech Tonic article which can be read at http://www.allianceforchildhood.org/

Philosophy of Education

I believe that education is an essential tool for success in life, which is why I have chosen education for my career. Specifically, I have chosen to be an early childhood teacher. I believe that the process of getting an education is like building a house. The early childhood years are the foundation of this "house," if there is a solid foundation then the learning process is more stable. The stages of early childhood are a critical time in the development of a person, during this time, teachers can use their resources and a child's natural curiosity to ensure that the spark for learning stays ignited forever. I believe that the role of the teacher is to be a guide for children on their path of discovery.

Ten Children's Books Every Child Should Read

  1. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff
  2. Llama Llama Red Pajama by Phyllis Wheatley
  3. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin, Jr.
  4. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak
  5. Owl Babies by Martin Waddell
  6. Mrs. Wishy Washy by Joy Crowley
  7. No, David! by David Shannon
  8. Black and White by David Macaulay
  9. How do Dinosaurs ...? series by Jane Yolen
  10. Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss