Session Content & Engagement Overview
Topics Covered:
The debate around technology integration in Early Childhood Education (ECE)
The SAMR model and its relevance to ECE
ISTE Standards and Transformative Learning Principles
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) Principles
Interactive exploration: Technology tools that enhance opportunity and spark curiosity—focused on classroom routines, accessibility, curriculum, and individual child goals
Session Agenda & Timing
5 minutes – Introductions:
"Who's in the room?" Icebreaker using a technology app (e.g., GoNoodle)
10 minutes – Research & Context:
Discuss current research and the ongoing debate around technology integration in ECE
15 minutes – Reflection:
Participants reflect on their own beliefs using Mentimeter and Turn-and-Talk activities
15 minutes – Frameworks for Integration:
Explore the roles of UDL, ISTE Standards, and Transformative Learning Principles in guiding effective technology use
30 minutes – Let’s Play!
Hands-on exploration of developmentally appropriate technology tools that support:
Classroom routines
Accessibility
Curriculum delivery
Individual child goals
Session Process
This session is grounded in Paulo Freire’s framework:
Name the problem, reflect on the problem, and take action.
Name the Problem:
The session begins by acknowledging the concerns and debates around technology use in early childhood settings, supported by current research.
Reflect on the Problem:
Participants will engage in structured reflection to examine their personal perspectives and experiences with technology integration.
Take Action:
The session will introduce UDL principles, ISTE Standards, and Transformative Learning as guiding frameworks. Participants will then explore a variety of technology tools designed to enhance engagement, representation, and expression, tailored to classroom routines, accessibility needs, curriculum goals, and each child’s individual development.
This presentation is designed following Paulo Freire’s approach: naming the problem, reflecting on it, and taking action. By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
1. Name the problem- Examine current research on technology integration in early childhood education.
2. Reflect- Reflect on their own perspectives regarding technology use during the early years.
3. Reflect- Discuss how UDL principles, ISTE standards, and transformative learning principles guide technology integration in early childhood.
4. Take action- Explore developmentally appropriate technology tools that support classroom routines, accessibility, curriculum delivery, and individual child goals by igniting curiosity and offering varied opportunities to learn and develop.
1. Foster Steen, B. (2025). Early childhood education for every learner: A Universal Design for learning approach. cast.org.
2. https://www.novakeducation.com/hubfs/UDL%20and%20SDI%20Resource.pdf?utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-9azfYn4y-fPcVuztaWwKTYTY0sUGZJGozjWkW0AqycVqH1y7wMuTUGnq3_hzwXGFTSYWWxYFZRH8hhOEaNNbk9VwqK0w&_hsmi=293726996&utm_content=293726996&utm_source=hs_automation
3. https://blog.brookespublishing.com/enhancing-early-ed-classrooms-with-udl/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4. cast.org (2025). Meyer, A., Rose, D., & Gordon, D. (eds). Universal design for learning: Principles, framework, and practice (3rd ed).
5. NAEYC technology and Media position statement: https://www.naeyc.org/sites/default/files/globally-shared/downloads/PDFs/resources/position-statements/ps_technology.pdf
6. Konerman, R., Horwitz, J., & Rietta, C. (2022): Harnessing potential: Integrating technology and media in Preschool: https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/tyc/winter2022/technology-integration
7. Snider, K., Adams, A., Birk, S. & Title, T. (2023). Take me to the movies: Using digital play and project work to spark young children's inquiry and learning: https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/yc/winter2023/take-me-to-the-movies
8. NAEYC- https://www.naeyc.org/sites/default/files/globally-shared/downloads/PDFs/resources/topics/PS_technology_Examples.pdf
9.https://www.edutopia.org/package/resources-school-tech-integration-tips-advice
10. https://www.edutopia.org/article/tech-tools-student-voice-choice-learning
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