EYFS Bite-size Training Understanding the world: Technology

Aims and outcomes Participants to: know the early learning goal in relation to technology understand how to work with children to support their capabilities in understanding and using technology know how the physical environment and resources support children in their use of technology gain confidence in planning for this area of learning and development for children of different ages and stages

In advance Before the training session you will have read Handout 1: What quality looks like in practice: Understanding the world: Technology If you have not read the handout, please inform the trainer.

Step 1 (5 -10 mins) Read the early learning goal relating to numbers: ‘Children recognise that a range of technology is used in places such as homes and schools. They select and use technology for particular purposes.’ Think about what the early learning goal means for you in practice. Working in pairs, think of three examples of interesting activities using technology that you do in practice. Write them on post-it notes to share with the whole group.

Technology in practice

Step 2 (10 mins) In small groups of three or four, discuss the following questions: Under3s Do we provide a wide range of resources – including toys, books, puzzles and games – which involve mechanical movements and functions such as buttons, flaps, fastenings and toys or everyday objects which move or make a sound in different ways? How well do we explain to all parents the positive effects of their children becoming familiar with everyday technology from a very young age? 3-5s Do the children have independent access to CD players, a small range of electronic toys, a light box or overhead projector to foster their interest in how things work and what they do as well as supporting the other areas of learning and development in the EYFS? Are we sufficiently confident to encourage the children to use sophisticated means of recording what they are doing – using digital cameras, videos and web cameras – to show their parents and carers the things which are of great importance to them in the course of the day?

Feedback your ideas to your trainer

Step 3 (5-10 mins) Thinking about what you read in Handout 1 and what you have learned today, work on your own to plan an activity based on technology to use with the children you work with. Share your ideas with a colleague.

After the training, part 1 After the training use Handout 3: Individual Action Plan to plan three or four things you will do in the next two weeks to improve your provision for Understanding the world: Technology. Give your action plan to your trainer within the next seven days.

After the training, part 2 Use Handout 2: Environment Audit to check how well you have arranged your indoor and outdoor spaces and resources to enhance children’s learning and development in technology. Make a note of any changes you need to make or resources which need to be replaced. Hand in the completed audits to your trainer.