‘We don't just do what we're told to do!’ Exploring pedagogical technology development needs

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis article investigates the application of technology to pedagogy in early years. The research considers the perceptions of technology that are held by a variety of practitioners in a range of settings. The research explores the factors influencing the participants’ interpretation of the pedagogical value of technology by asking two questions. Do the participants follow policymakers who support the application of technology to pedagogy? Do the participants mirror academic research in this area by considering that ‘e is only best’ when it is applied to pedagogy to develop creative thinking? The study is based in England and draws on the experiences of 16 practitioners who are working in either private or statutory nursery settings. The research is based on an inductive qualitative methodology that has gathered the participants’ views on the benefits of technology for pedagogy in early years. The research reveals that a range of personal, social and professional factors influence the participants’ pedagogy with technology. The article identifies the challenges that exist for the professional development of these early years educators in this area of pedagogy.