What's Happening with Computer Technology in Early Childhood Education Settings?

The present study examined the current status of computer use in early childhood education (ECE) by surveying active members of three mid-sized cities. An in-depth survey of seventy-five early childhood education directors provided demographic information about centers that have or have not incorporated computer technology into the programs as well as specific information about computer use. Less than half of the centers reported having a computer on the premises with users generally having only one available machine. Only half of the users had the accessories (e.g., sound cards, CD-ROM, etc.) necessary to run much of the present educational software appropriate for young learners. Among the respondents, there was overwhelming concern that the ECE staff lacked sufficient expertise or experience with computers to use them effectively. In contrast to the concerns and limitations, however, interest in introducing computer technology was high. Our results suggest that training may be necessary to facilitate the introduction of computers in ECE environments.