Tablets and Teaching: Updates on Dos and Don’ts in Early Learning

Today’s early educators face mixed messages about how and whether to use touch-screen tablets and other tech tools in their classrooms. On the one hand, they are navigating state and local policies limiting screentime to promote healthy development. But they are also wondering how technology could reduce administrative burdens and whether interactive games for reading, math, and other subjects could show evidence of what children are learning, not to mention what might be especially helpful to English learners or children with disabilities. Fortunately, to keep up with the latest in the science of child development, the American Academy of Pediatrics published updated guidelines last year. And new studies are emerging to help teachers and education leaders find the right balance. 

On January 30th at 3 pm ET, New America will kick off a two-part webinar series to discuss the guidelines and distill the most recent advice for teachers, parents, education leaders, state and local decision-makers, and family engagement specialists. This first webinar will highlight resources from the American Academy of Pediatrics, Children and Screens, and the National Association for the Education of Young Children. And it will open a discussion about when, if, and how teachers can use touch-screen tablets and smartphone apps to support teaching and learning. 

The second webinar, planned for February 25th, will go deeper on specific circumstances educators encounter in their classrooms, as well as tools and policies that enable good teaching. It will also build on questions that emerge from the first webinar. We are actively seeking audience input to shape the discussion.

Speakers: 

Jenny Radesky, author of American Academy of Pediatrics policy statements on digital media use in early childhood, and associate professor of pediatrics at University of Michigan Medical School

Kate Blocker, Director of Research and Programs, Children and Screens

Alissa Mwenelupembe, Managing Director, Early Learning, National Association for the Education of Young Children

Lydia Carlis, Chief Learning & Impact Officer, Acelero Learning

Sharon Huang, Senior Associate, Family Well-Being and Children’s Development, MDRC

Rebecca Dore, Director of Research at the Crane Center for Early Childhood Research and Policy, Ohio State University

Lisa Guernsey, co-author of Tap, Click, Read and author of Screen Time, and director of the Learning Sciences Exchange, New America   (moderator)

This event is hosted by New America’s Learning Sciences Exchange and Early & Elementary Education program, with thanks to the Gates Foundation for its support.