The children were able to use the computer to manipulate and explore. When developmentally appropriate graphics programs were used, all of the preschool children, regardless of age or sex, were motivated to create symbolic representations. The software offered flexibility and control, and made learning concepts more concrete and meaningful, all characteristics of developmentally appropriate software. Some programs, such as word processing, give children the support they need to be independent. Those who used programs with substantial amounts of scaffolding had increases in word knowledge, whereas those with minimal assistance or no software had lower levels of cognitive increases.
Scaffolding is a familiar concept in early childhood.
It is important to know that a scaffolding element of software can effect children's independence and involvement with the computer and lead to increased cognitive development. Input Device Educators often question the appropriateness of the mouse or keyboard as input methods for young children. Children's engagement in computer activities may be effected by the ease and efficiency in using a particular input method. In all of the studies, the mouse was found to be the most efficient method of input. The ability of preschool children to use a particular device may be related to cognitive factors, since the method found to be the least efficient is also the method which demands more cognitive processing abilities.