Creative technologies as a conduit for learning in the early years

Abstract

This article describes the use of robotics in an Early Years classroom as a tool to aid the development of technological skills in a creative environment rich with literacy and numeracy opportunities. The participating school was a P-7 Catholic primary school, situated in an inner city Brisbane, Queensland urban location. The pilot project described illustrates how a three-phase process can result in: (1) the development of emergent literacy and numeracy, and (2) the development of digital literacy and digital access for Early Years learners. The pilot study was conducted in a combined Prep?Year 1 class over a six- week period, during which students were introduced to and engaged in the creation of robots and simple machines via the use of LEGO WeDoc. The pilot was designed around three distinct phases: modelling, exploring, and evaluating. These phases provided scaffolding for the students to engage with the technology and for the class teacher to develop her own skills. This use of WeDoc is unique to Australia, unique to Early Years, and marries hands-on, fine-motor development with 21st century learning. The outcomes of the project astounded and delighted the teacher, the principal and the researchers