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Policy

Access to technology and media tools promotes development and offers many opportunities to integrate learning across content areas. Use of technology and media tools will be planned and integrated into the learning environment and used as one of many options to support children’s learning.

Procedure

  1. Technology and Media in the Classroom includes a broad range of digital and analog materials including but not limited to the following: Computers, tablets, multi-touch screens, mobile devices, cameras, DVD and music players, audio recorders, e-book readers, and older analog devices still in use such as tape recorders, VCRs, VHS tapes, record and cassette players, light tables, projectors, and microscopes.
  2. Staff will share with families how technology and interactive media are used in the classroom.
  3. New technology tools for the classroom will be approved by the Ed/Disabilities Consultant and the IT Manager.
  4. New approved technology tools that are assigned to the classroom will be introduced to the children before their use and children will be taught how to use them safely and appropriately.
  5. The use of interactive media and technology tools will be intentional, documented on the curriculum plan, and will support the learning goals of children over the age of 2.
    1. Adults will not use electronic media for personal use while supervising children.
  6. Interactive media and technology tools that are selected for classroom use will be developmentally appropriate.
    1. Selected tools will be age-appropriate, stereotype free, provide clear instructions and prompts, are well produced, and are free of commercial messaging.
    2. Technology features will be deliberately chosen to meet instructional goals of the children, including distinct cognitive abilities, motor skills, social-emotional needs, and interests of the child.
  7. The use of media, such as television, films, and videos is limited to developmentally appropriate programming. Media are used to supplement curriculum or as a special event rather than as part of the regular daily routine.
    1. Staff will obtain RM approval and preview any film, videotape, etc. to be used in the classroom prior to use.
    2. No child should be required to view the program – provide other options or activities.
    3. Screen time will be limited to no more than one hour and will not be on during snack or meal times.
    4. Staff should discuss what is viewed with children both before and after viewing to develop critical thinking and viewing skills.
    5. Staff should provide appropriate “hands on” learning experiences for the purposes of embedding the concepts of the media in other developmentally appropriate ways.
  8. The children’s physical environment will be configured to accommodate the approved technology tool or tools assigned in each classroom
    1. Hardware availability and placement will accommodate individual, small group, and whole group instruction (i.e.tablets, computers, and digital cameras are better suited for one child at a time while staff supervise and/or give instruction. Light tables are better for both small and large groups of children, and again staff will monitor group usage and/or give instructions).
    2. Technology is infused into multiple learning areas of the classroom alongside traditional materials.
  9. Technology and interactive media will offer opportunities for joint engagement, collaboration, information sharing, and conversation with peers, educators, parents, or other caregivers.
  10. Use of interactive media and technology tools will be connected to the non-digital world.
    1. Teaching staff will use technology tools to connect to the lives of students and world beyond the classroom.
    2. Technology will be used to explore real-world issues.
    3. Technology will support learning and expand access to new content by complementing and supplementing current activities such as creative play, physical activity, outdoor experiences, conversation, or social interactions.
  11. All children, including dual language learners, children with special needs, and others, will have opportunities to use and learn from available technologies.

This policy complies with Head Start Performance Standard 45 CFR Section 1302.31, 1302.61(a)

This policy complies with Oregon Administrative Rule 414-300-0295 (2)

Policy Council approved August 2015
© 2016. Head Start of Lane County. All rights reserved.
Updated December 2015. August 2017