Implementing Touch Screen Learning In Schools

by Adriana Noton on September 22, 2011

in Kids and Teens

Advanced developments in information technology are filtering into almost every sphere of life, including the conventional school classroom. By providing digital platforms which allow increased interaction with learners, new ways of assisting learners with disabilities have been birthed. One such example is touch screen learning innovations, which are proving to be effective tools in schools as well as foundational tools for babies, toddlers and young children.

Essentially, a touchscreen is a digital display which responds to touch within designated areas of its electronic display area. This touch may be administered by a human hand or finger, but can also be administered by a stylus or specialized pen to select particularly small icons or graphics. Modern examples are tablet PC’s, tenant directories in shopping malls or geographical maps in tourism bureaus as well as ATM’s.

What the functionality of these displays entails for the end-user, is that these devices can be accessed and interacted with in a more direct way than via external means such as a keyboard or mouse. For this reason, it has proven to be more user-friendly and easy to understand for people who have difficulty using conventional computerized devices. Visually, it is more stimulating and may even serve to decrease time lags for those waiting in line to make payments, buy tickets or access basic information especially with regards to banking. In addition, it is a technology being used to simplify education and make it more accessible to all kinds of learners.

These advancements have functioned as effective tools for learners with disabilities. Numerous case studies are evidence of this fact. Some tell of children with cerebral palsy whose over all muscle tone is strengthened by making use of this technology. Learners are able to hold their heads up and use their arms and hands to interact with the screen. In addition, software like math and language games assist in providing fun-filled education.

In another example, a quadriplegic student was assisted by a similar innovation that enabled him to communicate by means of a computer. The student made use of an on-screen keyboard, selecting the required letter by highlighting it and then pressing a button.

These types of products are also used to provide the essential foundational education needed by babies, toddlers and young children. They relate easier to this technology than older children simply because they grow up with it all around them. New products are designed with the understanding that technology plays an increasingly pivotal role in the lives of young children. Forward-thinking product developers can therefore cater for their basic needs through the use of touchscreen games and educational programs.

Tablet PC’s are being introduced into the classroom in many states, although lack of funds still remains a challenge for those schools who do not have the capacity to afford them. These PC’s are custom-made for their purpose in schools, and are therefore durable, flexible and relatively lower priced than the average PC targeted at mainstream consumers, although at the moment, its implementation in schools is on a trial basis. Many are optimistic that its user-friendly nature will lead to easy training systems and better, more direct ways of using technology.

Gradually, just as this technology has been implemented in society in various ways, it is evident that its use in schools may become more prevalent. Touch screen learning is proving to be a way in which to engage not only learners with disabilities, but also learners who find it easy to relate, engage with and use this technology in all spheres of life, including for educational purposes.

To help inspire the genius in your child you should consider the Vinci, it is the iPad for kids and children that brings a new approach to early childhood education.

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