Using technologies to teach different age groups meaningfully

Abstract

Increasing use of technologies in schools is inevitable as technologies provide new opportunities for innovative ways of learning and naturally attract students’ attention as modern and even playful tools. However, use of technologies can be most effective if the tasks are suitable for the specific age of students. It is necessary for teachers to be aware of cognitive development of children in different age groups in order to offer teaching methods and tasks that can be well-perceived by students and that foster the development of their cognitive abilities. This chapter provides a brief overview of cognitive development of children at different school ages, including development of executive functions and cognitive abilities, and gives examples of how information technology tools can be effectively used for different age groups. There should be at least two advantages for appropriate use of technologies: (1) age-appropriate technology use should enhance learning experiences so that students gain deeper knowledge, comprehension, and competencies in school subjects; and (2) appropriate tools help to maintain students’ attention and motivation, as well as foster their cognitive development, not impede it.