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Digital Technology in Early STEM Education: Exploring Its Supportive Role

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Book cover STEM, Robotics, Mobile Apps in Early Childhood and Primary Education

Part of the book series: Lecture Notes in Educational Technology ((LNET))

Abstract

The importance of early exposure to STEM has been reported by a number of scholars, while research indicated learning benefits when children use educational digital technologies. This chapter aims to explore the supportive-complementary role of educational digital technology (or ICT) in early childhood STEM education. Digital technology tools include educational robotics, simulations, models, narrative-rich videos, and digital games. Indicatively, educational robotics provides a learning environment where young children can apply computer programming skills, mathematical skills (numerical cognition, sequencing, patterns, counting, measuring, comparing, problem solving), and scientific skills and processes (scientific inquiry, conducting experiments, cause-effect relationships). The use of simulations enables hands-on experimental work and learning via investigations, while digital games aid children become familiar with the technology. Digital technology’s support has the potential to enhance the benefits of STEM in early years, under conditions (teacher guidance, pedagogical strategies, etc.). It is suggested for teacher professional development to promote early STEM education with digital technology.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Early Childhood Education, School of Education, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Navarinou 13a, 10680, Athens, Greece

    Kleopatra Nikolopoulou

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  1. Kleopatra Nikolopoulou
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Correspondence to Kleopatra Nikolopoulou .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Preschool Education, University of Crete, Rethymnon, Greece

    Stamatios Papadakis

  2. Department of Preschool Education, University of Crete, Rethymnon, Greece

    Michail Kalogiannakis

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Nikolopoulou, K. (2022). Digital Technology in Early STEM Education: Exploring Its Supportive Role. In: Papadakis, S., Kalogiannakis, M. (eds) STEM, Robotics, Mobile Apps in Early Childhood and Primary Education. Lecture Notes in Educational Technology. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-0568-1_6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-0568-1_6

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