Experts say there are ways to use technology to support children’s development. Photo: Kellie O’Brien.
Early childhood experts from across the globe will support Illawarra parents in navigating how best to use digital technologies to benefit their children’s development during an interactive public event at the University of Wollongong.
Technology is an inescapable reality in most young people’s lives, with parents grappling with overwhelming amounts of advice around screen time, development and risks surrounding their children engaging in the digital landscape.
“Educators and families are navigating a complex and ever-changing digital landscape where technology is embedded in children’s lives,” ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child Chief Investigator and Early Start Director Professor Lisa Kervin said. “Understanding how to navigate this space with creativity and care, guided by research and best practice, is essential.”
Now parents, educators and community members will get some more guidance to help them make informed decisions about how they can use this technology with intention and care to support creativity, collaboration and critical thinking.
Key note speaker Professor Kristiina Kumpulainen from the University of British Columbia will be joined by Professor Jessica Mantei from the University of Notre Dame, UOW panellists Associate Professor Dylan Cliff and Professor Steven Howard, alongside Professor Kervin to showcase practical strategies and real-world examples of meaningful engagement.
ARC Centre of Excellence for the Digital Child Chief Investigator and Early Start Director Professor Lisa Kervin. Photo: Paul Jones UOW.
In the interactive session Professor Kumpulainen will offer a unique insight from her extensive experience working with children, adults and technology in Finland and Canada about how thoughtfully designed digital experiences can enrich young learners’ development.
“This is an exciting opportunity to hear from experts in this field,” Professor Kervin said.
“Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how technology can open new pathways for young children to express ideas, work together, and think critically.
The event will also highlight innovative work being undertaken in the Illawarra at the Centre for the Digital Child, which includes UOW Children’s Technology Play Space and the launch of the DigIQ Professional Learning Package and STEAM modules.
These resources are freely available to educators and ensure that technology enhances rather than replaces collaborative exploration and collaborative problem-solving.
The public is invited to the free event at UOW Early Start on Tuesday 22 July from 4:30 to 5:45 pm.
For more information about the panellists or to register, visit the event website.
