To be effective, it must be used and used appropriately. Simply having a computer and adaptive technologies available for the children is not enough. In addition, the teacher must plan developmentally appropriate activities that are available to the children throughout the day. Computer software can be used to introduce a concept or to reinforce a concept that has been introduced through more traditional methods. Ideally, classrooms have a computer center in addition to the traditional block center, writing center, art center, housekeeping center, and so on.
Children are able to select computer as an activity during free choice time.
They may work individually or gather around the computer in small groups. The teachers also use the computer with both large and small groups, depending on the activity. Children with physical disabilities or language impairments have access to their assistive technology throughout the day. Over the years that Macomb Projects has been involved with young children, teachers, and assistive technology, we have witnessed many teacher practices that negatively impact successful integration. These include using computers for drill and practice, allowing only one child to sit at the computer at a time, limiting children's turns on the computer to no more than 5 minutes, and using the computer as a reward.