How-To Guide: Attending Computer Training Classes
Q. I don’t understand why my center director is making me attend computer training. I already know how to use a computer. Why must I attend this class?
A. As part of their contractual agreement with Cyberstart, each participating center agreed to send their staff to six hours of “Introduction to Computer Basics and the Internet” and six hours of “Integrating Computers into the Early Childhood Classroom”. The training requirement is a one-time requirement so after the required number of staff have taken the two classes there will be no recurring requirement.
The “Introduction to Computer Basics and the Internet” training is necessary so that all early childhood classroom professionals understand the mission of CyberStart , why the computers have been placed in the 3-5 classrooms, and how they can most effectively contribute to the development of the children. Each center and each participant bring different experiences and observations to the classroom and to the training sessions which result in a wealth of questions and insights which can be shared during the training sessions and benefit all participants.
In addition, it is essential that all professionals feel comfortable with using techology in the classroom so that they can work comfortably with the children and discuss the experiences with parents and peers. CyberStart has provided a number of software packages for children which require exploration by staff before introduction to children and training provides the opportunity to look at and discuss both the features and how the software helps to develop different skills in children.
Staff also need to become comfortable with Microsoft Word and Outlook so that they can create documents, letters, and reports, and communicate through email. CyberStart communicates with cites primarily through email and its web site so staff must be adept at electronic communication. Ease with the Internet may be one of the most valuable skills you may ever acquire. The ability to perform a good search will put all the information in the world at your fingertips. But you have to know how to do it correctly or you’ll just get too much information to sort through.
The training sessions also provide center staff with the opportunity to meet CyberStart staff so that you know who we are, share your experiences – positive or not, learn what our roles are, ask for assistance, make requests, and make suggestions.
The second six hours is “Integrating Computers into the Early Childhood Classroom” and is an online course which can be done at staff members’ own pace, from any computer with internet access. This course explains how to integrate computers and software into the early childhood curriculum so they become a true developmental tool in the classroom. This class also teaches how to select developmentally appropriate software.
In this age of technology and quickly changing job descriptions, it is a real asset to have computer skills. This training is free to participants and gives you 12 hours of DPW credit hours. Attend and learn all you can. It can only make you a better teacher – now and in the future. Role model for your children – show them that you are growing and learning, too.
[Posted on April 26, 2005]
