Enhancing Literacy Concepts: Digital Natives and Cultural Tools

Abstract

The paper reviews national and international literature on the effects of information and communications technology (ICT) in enhancing the conceptual development of children, and the impact of ICT in classrooms looking in particular at developing literacy skills in 0-3 years old children. Consideration is given to the effectiveness of computers and media equipment when integrated successfully, to enhance the holistic development of the child, while focusing on the area of literacy. This paper addresses the debate over the value and desirability of children in early years using computers; while considering the diversities involved with the use of ICT as opposed to traditional teaching methods in the area of developing concepts of early literacy, communication skills, and involvement. The paper links to a recent masters study which was completed in the area of pre-mathematical concepts, indicating significantly positive correlations for the implementation and use of ICT as a cultural tool to enhance the development of Irelands "digital natives" in preparation for a technologically changing society. The incentive for looking into this subject stems from the realisation that in spite of all the literature available on ICT and media in education, there is no real systematic discussion in the area of early years and pedagogy. This subject refers to what is suggested to be the most influential change in the educational system over the past decade, indicating a changing process which could not only determine the shape of educational systems, but also the nature of future generations and in fact education itself. This lack of discourse is proving detrimental to technologically changing societies and the complete understanding of what exactly is incorporated and involved in the term "integrating ICT and media" as a resource to enhance the early concepts of It is important to note that there is a lack of information and good quality research findings on ICT in educational settings and particularly in the area of early years and literacy development. Furthermore, reports, articles, and Websites claim great benefits derived for children using ICT; however, evidence-based research for such writing is weak and unsupported at times, resulting in a lack of understanding of the benefits and the need for early intervention in this area, if children are to progress and develop into socially competent adults in a world where ICT, media, and technology are becoming part of their daily existence. It is intended that this contribution will help overcome the current phobias which are often associated with ICT and young children, while introducing new ideas of how beneficial this resource could be if implemented in a supporting manner.