Mobile technologies and early childhood education

Abstract

Few studies/reviews were conducted on mobile technologies and mobile learning for early childhood education, studies regarding young children aged up to 6 years old. This paper identifies and presents basic issues/topics regarding mobile technologies and early childhood education. It discusses theoretical issues and research results on the following areas: (a) mobile devices’ usage by young children (frequency of use, preferred device, popular activities), (b) mobile technologies and early learning (e.g., effects on young children’s learning of concepts, development of skills, motivation), (c) mobile educational applications that target preschool children (type of applications, design features, ease of use), (d) parents’ and early childhood teachers’ perceptions regarding mobile technologies and young children, and (e) ethical considerations in research with young children. Based on the findings, suggestions for future research are also given (e.g., teachers’ acceptance of mobile learning, pedagogical support, cooperation between parents and early childhood teachers).