Technology and Mother Tongue in Preschool Classrooms Dr Weelai Suwanarat 20 May 2017

Importance of Mother Tongue in Preschool Classrooms Impact the individual child’s psychological and personality development Shape our thoughts and emotions Expresses first feelings, fear and happiness Indicator of cultural identity Connects to family, relatives, culture and religion through the Mother Tongue Powerful tool to preserve and convey culture and cultural ties Basis for learning another language Develop stronger literacy abilities in the language used at school Familiarity with the nuances of their Mother Tongue, how to learn it and use it, enable children to learn other language

Children use MTL to interact with their friends, family and community “Singapore’s bilingual policy has served us well. Knowing Mother Tongue Language helps to centre us as an Asian society and retain our Asian roots and values, and gives our people an edge in the global economy… We must do our utmost to maintain our linguistic heritage and advantage.” Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, 2011. In MOE (2011), Nurturing active learners and proficient users: 2010 Mother Tongue Language review committee report, p.5 Children should be given more opportunities to learn the Mother Tongue Language (MTL) Children use MTL to interact with their friends, family and community Children participate in the ethnic cultured, and begin to appreciate its customs and traditions As Educators, we must grow in our understanding of the teaching and learning of MTL for children

Overview of Framework for Mother Tongue Languages VISION Children as active learners who enjoy using Mother Tongue Language, communicate with confidence and appreciate the local ethnic culture LEARNING GOALS Have an interest in learning Mother Tongue Language Develop foundational language and literacy skills Be aware of the local ethnic culture OBJECTIVES Communication Culture Connection Nurturing Early Learners Curriculum for Kindergartens in Singapore. Framework for Mother Tongue Languages, MOE, 2013. 3. Learning of Mother Tongue Language is active and interactive, taking place in authentic settings 2. Teaching of Mother Tongue Language should cater to diverse learners 1. Mother Tongue Language is a living language to children GUIDING PRINCIPLES

Digital Native or Digital Immigrant

Role of Technology The goal of technology is not To enhance computer skills For earlier acquisition of academic goals Support learning by Incorporating play Incorporating child-centered activities

Role of Technology Books Technology Manipulatives Written information about concepts Technology Digital cameras, computer, audio & video equipment Manipulatives Other objects that explain the concept

Role of Technology Used in a way that promotes social interaction Used only when necessary Use multiple technologies Create opportunities for creative problem-solving

Role of Technology Provides educators resources and materials to improve their teaching Can be used to integrate the curriculum with the educational objectives of the centre

Technology and Mother Tongue Tools for Learning & Teaching Collaboration – negotiate and compromise Critical Thinking – promotes problem-solving skills Communication – promotes language and enhance expression of ideas Creative Thinking – promotes spatial reasoning

Technology and Mother Tongue Bee-Bot Designed to teach sequencing, estimation, planning and problem-solving skills Grid mats

Technology and Mother Tongue KIBO Allows children to create a series of instructions by scanning the wooden KIBO blocks KIBO blocks

Technology and Mother Tongue Curriculum Integration Retell a story ‘Choreograph’ dance movement Recognize and identify words, characters

Technology and Mother Tongue Curriculum Integration - Phonics

Technology and Mother Tongue Curriculum Integration Word recognition Language expression

Technology and Mother Tongue in Preschool Classrooms Catalysts for interaction, conversations and discussions Increase language and literacy development Allows children to respond and represent their learning in individualized ways

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