Using Developmental Theories to Inform the Design of Technology for Children

Wyeth, P. and Purchase, H. C. (2003) Using Developmental Theories to Inform the Design of Technology for Children. In: Proceedings of the 2003 conference on Interaction design and children, Preston, England, July 01 - 03, 2003, pp. 93-100. ISBN 158113732X (doi: 10.1145/953536.953550)

Abstract

Electronic Blocks are a new programming environment, designed specifically for children aged between three and eight years. As such, the design of the Electronic Block environment is firmly based on principles of developmentally appropriate practices in early childhood education. The Electronic Blocks are physical, stackable blocks that include sensor blocks, action blocks and logic blocks. Evaluation of the Electronic Blocks with both preschool and primary school children shows that the blocks' ease of use and power of engagement have created a compelling tool for the introduction of meaningful technology education in an early childhood setting. The key to the effectiveness of the Electronic Blocks lies in an adherence to theories of development and learning throughout the Electronic Blocks design process.

• Item Type: Conference Proceedings
• Keywords: children, design, developmental psychology, educational applications, tangible interfaces
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Purchase, Dr Helen
• Authors: Wyeth, P., and Purchase, H. C.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Computing Science
• Publisher: ACS
• ISBN: 158113732X