More than just Technology

by Lizette
(Qld)

Technology in the classroom is more than using computers and other IT things. We all use and love things like Beebots, listening posts, the internet etc. But it can be even simpler than any gadget.

In QLD, Technology involves the design and development of new products and new ways of doing things. Plans if you like. Technology combines creative thinking and practical problem solving skills. It is about teaching children to come up with solutions.

In prep Early Years curriculum ( Active Thinking processes) we encourage prep children to think and inquire by:

? investigating technology and considering how it affects everyday life inventive ideas/products to solve a problem or suit a need.

For example in my prep /one room we had a design challenge for our museum open day. They could use anything in the room. We did a group investigation first then individually.

Challenge: to construct a model dinosaur for the class museum as a display.

This was was check list criteria for Technology Practice I completed for each child...

1. Produces a product considering time management, team work skills and usability

2. Produces a simple model/product that relates to a design challenge and describes the steps in making

3. Evaluates, refines or modifies and talks about what went well

Resources......
4. Understands that the properties of materials reflect their selection and application in products

5. Tries simple methods for joining materials

6. Understands choice and use of equipment and techniques will vary depending on availability, physical constraints, safety, presentation and precision

7. Uses simple equipment with care to change appearance of product

Each child did a plan, showing their steps and equipment they would use and then had an interview discussing their finished product where we took photos for their portfolios and celebrated our MASTERPIECES!!

I am willing to share an example of my checklist, worksheets etc we produced if anyone needs/wants them.