In this fast-paced world, the need to cope up with technology has become crucial. Even young learners need to learn some tech stuff that they can use for their studies, for now for for future use. Here is a list of skills these students can now learn and that would be helpful for them. It is vital to know which skills are essential now and what could not distract him or her from the homework.
Leading technological corporations such as Hewlett Packard., Silicon Valley, and Oracle, in a survey agreed that the most essential computer skills required for young leaners today are as follows:
- Typing
- Word processing
- Spreadsheets
The ability to type well is the most essential of all as the keyboard is the main tool that drives all other technology. Even young students have projects that require typing on computers to come up with their reports and research works.
The most popular is the Microsoft Word. Learning how to type a document using this program is crucial if a student is to have a written report. The student should be able to properly format the document. Also, the program can help in spell check, grammar check, and even can provide synonym of words helping students widen their vocabulary.
Basic skills in Excel can be helpful especially if the report would have numbers in it. It is also helpful in organizing data and keeping track of it particularly if the data is being updated on regular basis. Another is that it could be a good practicing platform in teaching mathematics like keeping track of earnings and expenses. Even kids would enjoy this seemingly simple yet important task which he/she can benefit from in his/her later years.
4. PowerPoint
Slides are now the latest visual aids that can be used in classrooms and in group presentations. Young learners do not only enjoy creating colorful and even fancy PowerPoint presentations. This can also help them in creating reports using correct grammar and properly organized thoughts.
There are many high technology skills that students can learn and teachers can guide them in enjoying the technology without the risk of losing the purpose of properly educating them in the process.
References:
Hiltz, S. (1990) ‘Evaluating the Virtual Classroom’, in Harasim, L. (ed.) Online Education: Perspectives on a New Environment New York: Praeger, pp. 133–169
Selwyn, N. (2011) Education and Technology: Key Issues and Debates. London: Continuum International Publishing Group.
Warschauer, M., & Matuchniak, T. (2010). New technology and digital worlds: analyzing evidence of equity in access, use and outcomes. Review of Research in Education, 34, 179-225.
By: Diana C. Punzalan | Teacher | Alauli Elementary School | Pilar, Bataan
