Sunday, November 25, 2012

TECHNOLOGY

Recently a question was presented in a group discussion of Montessori teachers that totally stumped me and made me realize how completely out-of-date I am to a new culture our children are absorbing and growing in to: Smart boards, iPads, iPhones, and new technological gadgets and games to come. The teacher wanted to know when and how all this technology is incorporated into the child’s life.

I’ve been thinking about this all week, wondering what Maria Montessori would tell or show the teachers. As a scientist, she would understand the mechanics of it all—certainly more so than I ever will. I’ve been told there is software (aps) for Montessori teachers to learn how to present the technical applications and collaborate with the children’s materials. She recommended waiting until the child was five.

Another person commenting suggested to wait until the child had the reasoning to make comparisons and did so through sensorial material. My suggestion is to work with comparisons with nature and a child’s senses.

It upsets me to see very young children spending their time pushing buttons on these little game pads that offer limited learning experiences. What is their life missing in the meantime? Better they spend the time asking live people questions about their world. Let them use their imagination and wonder about the magic of the technology of our age. Let them enjoy and learn to appreciate the social joy of verbal and handwriting communication. It’s the journey that matters.

Please read my book, Montessori—Living the Good Life. www.montessoritheory.com

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