# Using Tablets to Teach Basic Literacy Skills to Kindergarten Students: A Case Study
## 2 Background
### Tablets, Very Young Students, and Literacy Skills with a Focus on Letter Name/Sound Identification
Nevertheless, tablets' success in improving letter and sound recognition skills depends on several factors, including the role of teacher guidance and the quality of educational applications [37]. Studies indicated that teacher guidance is critical in maximizing the educational benefits of applications, and their involvement is essential in directing students' use of tablets to ensure optimal learning outcomes [36]. They also play a pivotal role in fostering media competence, ensuring that technology enhances rather than distracts from learning [10]. Therefore, the integration of tablets in education should be complemented by teacher-led instruction to effectively support the development of phonological awareness and phonics skills [36]. Yet, educators face the challenge of integrating tablets into curricula while adhering to educational standards and maintaining a play-based learning environment. Thus, integration requires balancing digital and conventional teaching methods effectively [44]. Moreover, the effectiveness of tablets in literacy education depends on the quality of the applications utilized. Not all applications are designed with educational goals in mind, which can hinder learning outcomes [35]. Phonological awareness instruction should involve clear explanations of what students are required to do, supported by models or examples, and manipulatives that represent sounds. It should also offer enough opportunities for students to engage in practice through interactive activities [6]. Similarly, effective phonics instruction should systematically introduce letter-sound correspondences in a logical sequence, provide practice with reading words both in isolation and within context, and ensure frequent and rapid practice [6]. When tablets serve as the instructional medium, it is imperative that these recommended practices are preserved. Applications should incorporate these methodologies, presenting knowledge and skills in a manner that is both developmentally appropriate for learners and accurate in terms of content [45]. Thus, it is essential to select high-quality educational applications to promote literacy skills effectively [35; 46]. The effectiveness of tablets can also be influenced by the context in which they are used, further highlighting the need for careful selection and integration of this technology in educational settings [33; 35]. While these devices can enrich learning experiences and boost motivation, they also raise concerns related to developmental, educational, and social aspects. The use of stylus and touch interfaces can help children practice writing in a digital format, which may complement traditional handwriting practices [47]. However, the use of a stylus introduces challenges due to the slippery surface, potentially hindering motor control and negatively impacting writing performance. In contrast, traditional handwriting with a pencil has been shown to be more effective in enhancing letter identification and visuospatial skills, though keyboard training on tablets showed superior performance in word writing and reading [47]. Excessive screen time has been associated with socioemotional impairments, potentially affecting children's relationships and academic performance. Indeed, research suggested that children exposed to multimedia devices, including tablets, may exhibit increased pediatric symptoms and developmental issues [48]. The design of many children's applications, which often includes features like autoplas and vibrant colors, can hinder toddlers from transitioning away from tablet use. This design can lead to behavioral issues [49]. The use of tablets can interfere with the development of foundational social skills, such as communication and collaboration, if not properly integrated into social learning contexts [50]. Careful consideration of these challenges is necessary to ensure that introducing tablets into early education is beneficial rather than harmful.