Technology, whether we like it or not holds a persistent presence in every day life. Take a second to think about our society; smart phones/tablets and the internet are the first things that come to mind. We surround ourselves with these things. In fact, you would be hard pressed to walk down the street, catch a bus or train, or even go shopping without seeing people using any one of those things. Whilst those of us who are older can appreciate that life was not always like this, this new era is not simply a ‘fad’ or ‘craze’…it is our children’s reality.

 

 

Is it any wonder then, that some children find it difficult to engage in old fashioned schooling, paper based books and even playing outdoors? Can we adapt or even utilise technology for the better?

A recent study by the National Literacy Trust found that children using e-books made, on average, 8 months progress in reading, and these were not the only positive findings. Enjoyment of reading increased significantly and the number of children who found reading difficult decreased by almost half! This was found largely with boys – with a 25% increase in boys reading daily and a double in the amount of boys who decided reading was ‘cool’.

With such outstanding results, it is without doubt that utilising technology in a child’s learning (whether that is inside or outside of school) can have positive effects, as they engage with technological devices and find enjoyment in them.

This can certainly be said of KSOL’s online learning programmes which have been running for over 10 years. Not only have they proven to enhance a child’s knowledge and skills, but provide both parents and tutors with the ability to concentrate on developing areas of weakness through personalisation. What better way to develop a child’s education than focus on exactly what they need?

Should we scrap old school learning?

No. Not entirely, but we must evolve and embrace technology to enhance learning. Did you know that 65% of children will enter professions that don’t even exist yet. That’s pretty important to keep in mind.

© Copyright 2016 Key Stages Online.

Source: http://www.literacytrust.org.uk/assets/0002/9076/The_Impact_of_Ebooks_final_report.pdf