Using Technology With Young Children

I just finished watching three videos of teachers implementing technology in their classrooms. It was interesting and neat to watch how even in Kindergarten the teacher was able to use technology to help enhance the students' experiences and education. For all of the grade levels I saw (K, 1, and 3) I was actually pretty amazed at how much the children at a young age could do with technology. I often struggle trying to come up with developmentally appropriate lessons that incorporate technology. These videos helped me learn that children - even young children - are capable of, or can learn, to use several different forms of technology.
I also learned that using technology in your classroom doesn't always have to be computers or one particular program (on the computer) or form of technology... The "I Love Spiders" video showed the class using cameras, using CD-ROM encyclopedias, the internet, and email - all integrated with other teaching/learning forms. I thought this variety within her unit about spiders was good to keep the students engaged. Her unit would provide enough change between teaching methods to keep the students interested (in case the topic wasn't interesting enough!). I think striking a good balance and finding ways to incorporate technology is a great strategy to enhance students' learning.