Early Byte-sized Learning

Written by Carol Batista Caputo, Jagath Jayawardena, Gayani Karunarathne, Radhipa Fiona Perera, Liman Ren, Julia Ruohomaa, Wedala Gedara, Kasuni, Fan Yang on 29 April 2024

The article talks about how important media is in education, especially in the Eastern world, and how it can improve learning through interactive tools like educational apps, which are used in Finland starting from age 1. 

Use of digital media in education in Finland

Finland is at the forefront of using digital media in education. Finnish schools are bringing in digital tools like e-learning materials, apps, and virtual environments to make learning better and more creative. They focus on making sure every student can learn in their own way, which helps with more active participation. Even in early childhood, teachers in Finnish day care centers use digital media to enhance their teaching skills.

Digital media opens up a lot of information for kids, boosts their critical thinking, and makes learning more interactive. By using technology, schools can provide students with the skills needed for today's world and ensure that everyone has equal access to learning. Finland is dedicated to creating a fair and effective educational environment for all students, preparing them for success in a digital future.

The positive impact of digital media on young minds

Digital media has many benefits for young people. It offers a wealth of information that helps them learn about different topics, cultures, and perspectives from around the world, expanding their knowledge and understanding. Educational platforms online provide interactive experiences that match different learning styles, making it easier for students to understand complex ideas. Additionally, digital media lets young people express themselves creatively by sharing their art, music, and writing with a global audience, which can lead to feedback and encouragement.

Furthermore, digital media helps young people build communities by sharing their interests, which creates a sense of belonging. This can be especially helpful for those who feel isolated in their offline lives. Engaging with digital media also teaches young people to think critically and evaluate the reliability of information, developing important skills in media literacy. Moreover, digital media informs them about global issues like climate change and human rights, inspiring them to act as global citizens. When used wisely and with adult guidance, digital media can have a positive impact on the development and growth of young minds.

 Ways to use digital media to promote the overall growth of young people

Digital technology is growing quickly and has become a key part of young people's lives every day. It's not just for fun, but also a great tool for learning and growth. As educators, we should use digital media to help young people grow healthily.

Learning Resources - Digital media offers a wide range of learning tools like online courses, apps, and virtual labs. Studies show that these tools make learning more interesting and can even help improve grades in subjects like math and science.

Communication and Social Interaction - Digital media gives young people a way to connect with others around the world, helping them improve their social skills and understand different cultures. This global connection can teach young people to respect various views and ideas.

Inspiration and Creativity - Platforms like video sharing sites allow young people to share their creative work with a wider audience, earning recognition and encouragement. This can boost their ability to innovate and solve problems.

Critical Thinking and Information Skills - Digital media helps young people access a lot of information and teaches them how to think critically about what they find. They learn to tell the difference between true and false information, improving their skills in handling data.

Digital media is essential for helping young people grow in many ways. By providing different learning resources, ways to connect socially, chances to be creative, and skills in critical thinking, digital media prepares young people for future success.

In conclusion, Finland is committed to using digital media in classrooms to help students do better, be more creative, and prepare for today's digital world. By using technology this way, Finland wants to give students the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in a world that's always changing and connected.

References

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Kong, S. C., Chan, T. W., Griffin, P., Hoppe, U., Huang, R., Kinshuk, & Ogata, H. (2014). E-learning in school education in the coming 10 years for developing 21st century skills: Critical research issues and policy implications. Journal of Educational Technology & Society, 17(1), 70-78. 

Ito, M., Gutierrez, K., Livingstone, S., Penuel, B., Rhodes, J., Salen, K., ... & Watkins, S. C. (2013). Connected learning: An agenda for research and design. Digital Media and Learning Research Hub. 

Valkenburg, P. M., & Peter, J. (2011). Online communication and adolescent well-being: Testing the stimulation versus the displacement hypothesis. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 16(4), 481-504. 

Livingstone, S., & Bober, M. (2004). UK children go online: Final report of key project findings. LSE Research Online.