Psychological and Pedagogical Approach to Designing Developmental Computer Programs for Senior Preschool Children

This article decribes the specifics of using computers and computer programs in developmental work with children of preschool age. The concept of a computer game and the activity mediated by the computer is discussed. We present analysis of modern computer programs for preschool children, including shortcomings and risks of the usage of entertainment programs. Design stages of the computer program from the point of view of activity approach are introduced. Two types of developmental computer programs are appointed: closed and open type. Advantages of programs of open (creative) type are shown. The contents of a uniquely designed computer program of open (creative) type are described, with indication of the principles that methodology of the lessons is based upon. Finally, we present the results of a formative experiment, which showed that the developmental computer program and the suggested methodology of lessons promote development of certain components of systemic thinking, general integral indicator of systematic, as well as flexibility of thinking and imagination of senior preschool children.

Nowadays modern preschool education faces the tasks related to active and effec­tive use of new technologies in education and developmental work with children. Preschool education in this context demands a special approach to the contents, methods and forms of work with children. New computer technologies cannot be mechanically transferred to the educational environment of a kindergarten. Spe­cial research is necessary to provide scientific ground for introduction of the com­puter technologies into this primary and in many respects key stage of education.

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