Main Topics

Overview
Adaptations to Environment
Preschool Computer Center
Management Strategies
Performance Indicators
Computer Environment Site Map

Preschool Computer Center

Sub-Topics (Click on topic you wish to see)

Universally accessible
Independent Computer Use
KidDesk

Preschool Computer Center

View “Your Preschool Classroom Computer Center: How Does It Measure Up?” Checklist

1. Is your classroom computer accessible to all children?

Adaptations can make the computer accessible so that all children can participate equally in technology activities. A variety of alternative input devices can help children with physical disabilities be successful and gain independence as they use the computer. Adaptive devices include:Switch and Switch Interface

IntelliKeys
Discover:Kenx
- Discover:Switch
- Discover: Board
- Key Largo
TouchWindow or Touch Screen

For more information, visit the Adaptations Workshop.

2. Is your computer center a safe place for children to learn?

Considerations for the physical location of the computer in your room:

Place the computer against a wall or near an outlet.
Use velcro fasteners to tie cords together and out of childen's view.
Secure wires with tape if they need to stretch across part of the room.
Place the computer in a low traffic area.
Monitor and input devices should be placed in secure positions with extra wire hidden from children's view.

3. Are multiple child-size chairs available for the children at the computer center?

There should be at least two child-size chairs at the computer to encourage social interaction among children. Chairs should be at an appropriate height so that children's feet touch the floor while they are seated at the computer.

4. Is the computer monitor placed at a child's eye level?

Place the computer on either a low table, preferably an adjustable one, or a computer cart which can be moved for small group activities.
Position the monitor on the main surface of the table or cart.
Adjust the height and angle of the monitor so that it is between 18" and 26" from the child's eyes.
Adjust lighting and/or close window shades or blinds to omit glare on screen.

5. Are children allowed to use the computer independently?

Teach children rules for responsible behavior in the computer center.
Teach children how to handle CD-ROMs - removing them from their cases, inserting them in the drive and closing the drive door.
Use KidDesk as a desktop protection program so that children can select the software program they want.

6. Do children use a sign-up sheet or book to manage turn taking?

Encourage children to manage their own turntaking by providing a sheet or book for signing up for the computer. See the Emergent Literacy Workshop for details on creating and using a sign-up sheet.

For more information, view
the Emergent Literacy
Workshop.

7. Is turn-taking managed in ways other than through use of a timer?

Center for Best Practices does not encourage the use of a timer due to the restrictions that it places on children's creativity at the computer. Children feel rushed and anxious when a timer is used. Use of a timer also encourages aggressive behaviors in children who are waiting for their turn. A timer is usually not used in other centers, therefore the computer center should be treated in the same way.

Without a timer, the classroom teacher can:

Provide quality time for creating and exploring at the computer.
Encourage children to manage their own turntaking.
Allow children freedom to interact with others at the computer.

8. Are props (toys, games, books) related to the software provided at or near the computer center?

Extend children's learning at the computer center by providing appropriate props. Relate props to selected software with content related to classroom projects and topics.

A variety of printer products are available which will help in making off-computer materials which relate to software. Technical support information for printers, including updated drivers, fAQs, and technical specifications can be found at the Canon website.

View Canon Website Online
http://www.usa.canon.com/

Projects for Printers

Printer Fabric Sheets
Are available at fabric stores, and numerous online stores.
The Fons and Porter Quilt Supply website
http://www.fonsandporter.com/storefront/fabricsheets.html
The Computer Quilting Made Easy website
http://softexpressions.com/software/notions/jtcolorf.htm

Iron-on Transfers

Ginger's Needlework and Quilting
http://www.quiltknit.com/memories/

Print and Stick Project Paper
Window Decals

http://www.paper-paper.com/
window-sticker.html

Bumper Stickers

http://www.paper-paper.com/bumper_stickers.html

Crayola Printer Papers - Stardust Pattern, Classic Colors, Pastel Colors

Information on many of these printer products can be found online or at your local crafts store, and there are many other ideas and free downloads available at the Canon Online website.

View Canon Print Planet
http://www.canonprintplanet.com/

9. Are classroom CD-ROMs easy for children to access?

Encourage children to make their own decisions about software from designated titles by making it easy for them to access CD-ROMs.
Keep CD-ROM storage at child's eye level.
Store CD-ROMs in inviting holders which hang close to computer - these can be purchased or homemade.
- Large envelopes, manila folders, or heavy paper can be made into pockets and laminated.
Provide clues with each title which help the child know which one it is:
- Pictures from software boxes can be taped to software holder.
- Pictures from software screens can be captured, reduced, and printed to fit on software holder.

10. Do you use KidDesk as a desktop management program?

"KidDesk Screenshot." The Center for Best Practices has seen many benefits from using KidDesk with children. Besides the many literacy benefits, children also benefit from independent computer use with KidDesk. See Management Strategies section for benefits and applications of KidDesk.