ECE 315
Week 3
Tips and Thoughts from the Trenches
This week's readings delve in chapter five and six. There are some key "take aways" regarding language and cognitive growth just as there are with the chapter on developmental milestones. Cognitive development begins with a sequence of brain development and stimulation is needed to ensure optimal growth. In fact, you will read about a study of orphans that were neglected from forming attachments and kept from the stimulation of language and the long lasting effects. There are key developmental milestones that occur from birth forward and void of stimulation or when an existing impairment or disability occurs, milestones are not met. A teacher along with the parents must provide early interventions in order to give the child a chance at language acquisition.
Both chapters remind me of a student, Gemma, I worked with briefly earlier this year. Born with several disabilities, her parents kept her from school until she turned five mid fall. Once they enrolled her, it was apparent within the first introduction, the child suffered from speech delays and behavioral issues. She did not have any speech beyond grunts and ran wildly from one part of the room. I will write more about this young child and the interventions and later change of educational setting when we post this week.
Test Your Understanding
Reccomended Reading- Understanding Digital Kids
To Do List
Post #1- Language and Cognitive Processes Questions
Review the Language Acquisition in Early Childhood Education interactive game which focuses on language developmental stages and cognitive processes.
Write three questions you can ask your classmates that would help to evaluate their knowledge of the developmental milestones and brain development stages and how they influence language development and acquisition. These questions should be focused on the main concepts in Chapters 5 and 6. You can see several examples of types of questions in the interactive Jeopardy game. Do not include the solutions.
Post #2- Video Write up
Journal
Are today's kids fundamentally different? Read the article “Understanding Digital Kids (DKs): Technology & Learning in the New Digital Landscape,” and develop o though response. Use the directions on our week three page and the rubric to help you include all the components for this journal.