How Imagine Tomorrow Aligns With The National Educational Technology Standards (NET-S) Pre K-2 (4-8)
Posted by Barbara Elliott on Monday, August 3, 2009
THE National Education Technology Standards (NETS) 2008 has outlined the following skill areas as part of their profile for early childhood students.
Imagine Tomorrow Computer Classes for Kids aligns to these standards in the ways described below.
Grades PK–2 (Ages 4–8)
The following experiences with technology and digital resources are examples of learning activities in which students might engage during PK-Grade 2 (Ages 4-8):
1. Illustrate and communicate original ideas and stories using digital tools and media-rich resources. (1,2)
Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children about technology through original age-appropriate stories. As part of each lesson, children are encouraged to form original ideas and express themselves using technology as a creative tool. Self expression is encouraged through positive and meaningful experiences that integrate a variety of technology resources that combine video, text, sound, and graphics in a rich multi-media experience.
2. Identify, research, and collect data on an environmental issue using digital resources and propose a developmentally appropriate solution. (1,3,4)
Imagine Tomorrow’s lessons not only teach children about computers, they also use technology to teach children about the world around them. Our program teaches environmental issues such as the importance of recycling, protecting our beach dunes, planting trees, and many other topics. Children learn through our program how to use technology to solve environmental problems to make the world around them a better place.
3. Engage in learning activities with learners from multiple cultures through e-mail and other electronic means. (2,6)
Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children how to use technology as a tool to communicate with people around the world. They learn how computers, email, internet, text messaging, networking, and other technologies are used to make the world a smaller place. Using our custom designed software children experience first-hand how ideas can be shared instantly and collaboration can take place virtually. Every lesson includes an email section where children use email to express what they have learned and share their ideas in a totally safe and simulated way.
4. In a collaborative work group, use a variety of technologies to produce a digital presentation or product in a curriculum area. (1,2,6)
Imagine Tomorrow’s classes encourage group interaction as the children work together as a team to reach a common goal. The class works together as a group, collaborating during the interactive video portion of the class where they form their goals and learn the lesson of the day. Next, they work individually on computers to solve the problem and apply the skills they learn. As part of each custom software package, the children work on creative activities that allow them to present their ideas and express the skills they learned.
5. Find and evaluate information related to a current or historical person or event using digital resources. (3)
Imagine Tomorrow works primarily with younger children to teach them how to use technology as a resource. The program builds proficiency in many areas of research including using the Internet, Search Engines, Email, and other forms of technology to discover new information and apply it in a meaningful way. In the context of our lessons the children interact with both a live-action host as well as fictional animated characters that come to life through our original software.
6. Use simulations and graphical organizers to explore and depict patterns of growth such as the life cycles of plants and animals. (1,3,4)
Imagine Tomorrow’s custom software integrates activities that are designed to teach children patterns of growth and life cycles. For example, at File Farm children might work on an activity that teaches them about growing their own plants by first planting seeds, watering them, watching them sprout, and then harvesting the food. The children also learn about animal life cycles with interactions that include bugs hatching from eggs and other integrated experiences.
7. Demonstrate safe and cooperative use of technology. (5)
Imagine Tomorrow teaches safety with every lesson that involves the use of technology as a tool to communicate. We address issues such as Internet safety, encouraging children to only use these tools with an adult. As children learn how to share ideas and communicate using email, text messaging, instant messaging, cell phones, and other devices, Imagine Tomorrow uses simulated experiences to guide children through the process of safely communicating ideas.
8. Independently apply digital tools and resources to address a variety of tasks and problems. (4,6)
Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children to apply new technology skills to solve real problems. Each lesson leads children through a story that is an age appropriate experience designed to teach them how to apply new technology skills to solve an exciting new problem. For example one lesson might focus on keyboarding skills and the children learn to use the backspace key to fix a mixed up message. With different challenges as part of each lesson, the children are constantly engaged in new lessons that feature all new activities customized to that lesson. Every class utilizes a unique custom software package that automatically adapts to each child’s individual ability level to ensure each child understand
how to independently apply these skills.
9. Communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology. (6)
Imagine Tomorrow classes begin with group interactivity where children are introduced to technology terminology that is developmentally appropriate. The terms are introduced as part of a meaningful story that is designed exclusively for young learners. Visiting places like “Microchip Mountains” or “Internet Island”, children are introduced to new concepts and terminology. As the children then work on the custom software, the terminology is reinforced throughout the lesson to continue to expand a child’s understanding. Through creative activities where children simulate emails and other messages, the child can express these technology concepts through words, pictures, and sound.
10. Demonstrate the ability to navigate in virtual environments such as electronic books, simulation software, and Web sites. (6)
The Imagine Tomorrow program uses custom software that allows children to independently navigate a virtual world that is filled with the latest technology. As they explore this environment, children work on activities that simulate real world technology based experiences such as simulated email, messaging, networking, and Internet exploration. Using simulated experiences allows the program to introduce sophisticated high-end concepts in a safe and age appropriate way.
THE National Education Technology Standards (NET-S) 1998 has outlined the following skill areas as part of their profile for early childhood students.
Imagine Tomorrow Computer Classes for Kids aligns to these standards in the ways described below.
Prior to completion of Grade 2 (Age 8) students will have the opportunity to demonstrate the following:
1. Use input devices (e.g., mouse, keyboard, remote control) and output devices (e.g., monitor, printer) to successfully operate computers, VCRs, audiotapes, and other technologies. (I)
Children enrolled in Imagine Tomorrow classes always work on their own computers. Their personalized hands-on experience helps build proficiency with the mouse, keyboard, and other devices. Each class also uses custom software that adapts to each child’s individual ability level. The every original software package combines mouse, keyboard, activities designed to specifically work on these important areas of proficiency. In addition, the Imagine Tomorrow curriculum introduces young children to a wide variety of technology devices from printers and monitors, to web cams and cell phones. These technologies are introduced to children as part of a story that allows children to see the use in an age-appropriate context.
2. Use a variety of media and technology resources for directed and independent learning activities. (I, III)
One of the most important things children learn as part of the Imagine Tomorrow program is that there are many different ways to access information. Through our fun-loving original characters like “Bookworm” and lessons that introduce sophisticated concepts like “search engines” and the Internet, the children learn how to find information to solve problems. As part of each class, children learn a new technology concept and then have the unique opportunity to apply the skill they are learning about to solve the “problem of the day”. The children are encouraged to think independently and
throughout our custom software the students are constantly challenged to make independent creative choices that demonstrate their comprehension.
3. Communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology. (I)
Imagine Tomorrow classes begin with group interactivity where children are introduced to technology terminology that is developmentally appropriate. The terms are introduced as part of a meaningful story that is designed exclusively for young learners. Visiting places like “Microchip Mountains” or “Internet Island”, children are introduced to new concepts and terminology. As the children then work on the custom software, the terminology is reinforced throughout the lesson to continue to expand a child’s understanding. Through creative activities where children simulate emails and other
messages, the child can express these technology concepts through words, pictures, and sound.
4. Use developmentally appropriate multimedia resources (e.g., interactive books, educational software, elementary multimedia encyclopedias) to support learning. (I)
The Imagine Tomorrow custom software has been designed specifically for early learners. It is the only program that uses a unique software package to teach each lesson. In addition the program utilized rich interactive video content. The program also supports literacy skills which are threaded through each lesson. By teaching young children literacy and technology skills together, the Imagine Tomorrow program is giving children a strong foundation that supports other learning initiatives. Children learn more than how to use the technology. They learn why to use it and when to use it.
5. Work cooperatively and collaboratively with peers, family members, and others when using technology in the classroom. (II)
One of the most exciting components of the Imagine Tomorrow program is the custom website that allows parents to log on from home. Each lesson has its own website with activities that reinforce mouse, keyboard, and creative skills, plus lesson summaries, and ideas for reinforcement for parents. This allows the learning opportunities to be extended to home and be shared with peers, family members and others.
6. Demonstrate positive social and ethical behaviors when using technology. (II)
One of the most powerful things we can teach our young children, in a positive way to promote communication that is meaningful. Imagine Tomorrow gears all lessons towards its young audience understanding that children need to be taught at a young age to use technology to share ideas, work together, and solve problems. These skills will allow children to be the leaders of tomorrow. Our program always encourages positive, meaningful communications and also encourages all different forms of technology based communication from emai l, text messaging, instant messaging, cellular, blue tooth, to networking, and Internet. We simulate positive interactions to guide children as they learn how to use these powerful tools in a safe way.
7. Practice responsible use of technology systems and software. (II)
One of the first lessons Imagine Tomorrow teaches children is to respect technology and respect each other. From simple rules that teach children not to bang on keyboards or be rough on the equipment, to entire lessons that teach skills like shutting down computers properly, the Imagine Tomorrow program is always teaching children to be responsible and respectful of the computers and technology they are using.
8. Create developmentally appropriate multimedia products with support from teachers, family members, or student partners. (III)
Each Imagine Tomorrow lesson follows a project-based approach where at the end of each class the child has successfully completed a new mission using a variety of different tools and techniques. The program integrates all forms of multimedia technology such as video, graphics, sound, and animation. The children not only learn the skills but are given creative tools to self-express what they are learning. These creative opportunities allow teachers to check for comprehension and encourage creative use of the technology. These projects can be extended by teachers, parents, and family through the unique Adventure Journal websites that go along with each lesson and reinforce skills learned.
9. Use technology resources (e.g., puzzles, logical thinking programs, writing tools, and digital cameras, drawing tools) for problem solving, communication, and illustration of thoughts, ideas, and stories. (III, IV, V, VI)
Imagine Tomorrow uses custom software that is rich with puzzles, activities to develop thinking skills, creative writing activities, and other drawing and graphic tools. These components are part of every class and are designed to allow children to further expand on their understanding of the lesson. These activities are also designed to adjust to the child’s ability level allowing children to move from basic letter recognition to word and sentence development using these custom programs.
10. Gather information and communicate with others using telecommunications, with support from teachers, family members, or student partners. (IV)
One of the most exciting things to see when you watch and Imagine Tomorrow class is the way students proudly express the skills that they learn. Our program is rich with interactive segments that encourage children to verbalize the information they are learning and interact in a group setting where they can share the new skills they are acquiring. Imagine Tomorrow believe that true learning occurs when children can apply what they are taught and communicate their ideas successfully. Our program is designed to foster and encourage these skills through our software and interactive videos and also through our unique approach to learning. Children (especially young learners) will develop positive feelings towards communicating their ideas when they are learning in an environment that is positive and designed to lead them to success. Imagine Tomorrow creates software that promotes this approach through lots of positive reinforcement, personal encouragement, and applause and rewards for every success. When children complete the program they are not only learning new technology skills, they are proud to share these experiences with friends and family.
Copyright Imagine Tomorrow 2009
Imagine Tomorrow Computer Classes for Kids aligns to these standards in the ways described below.
Grades PK–2 (Ages 4–8)
The following experiences with technology and digital resources are examples of learning activities in which students might engage during PK-Grade 2 (Ages 4-8):
1. Illustrate and communicate original ideas and stories using digital tools and media-rich resources. (1,2)
Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children about technology through original age-appropriate stories. As part of each lesson, children are encouraged to form original ideas and express themselves using technology as a creative tool. Self expression is encouraged through positive and meaningful experiences that integrate a variety of technology resources that combine video, text, sound, and graphics in a rich multi-media experience.
2. Identify, research, and collect data on an environmental issue using digital resources and propose a developmentally appropriate solution. (1,3,4)
Imagine Tomorrow’s lessons not only teach children about computers, they also use technology to teach children about the world around them. Our program teaches environmental issues such as the importance of recycling, protecting our beach dunes, planting trees, and many other topics. Children learn through our program how to use technology to solve environmental problems to make the world around them a better place.
3. Engage in learning activities with learners from multiple cultures through e-mail and other electronic means. (2,6)
Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children how to use technology as a tool to communicate with people around the world. They learn how computers, email, internet, text messaging, networking, and other technologies are used to make the world a smaller place. Using our custom designed software children experience first-hand how ideas can be shared instantly and collaboration can take place virtually. Every lesson includes an email section where children use email to express what they have learned and share their ideas in a totally safe and simulated way.
4. In a collaborative work group, use a variety of technologies to produce a digital presentation or product in a curriculum area. (1,2,6)
Imagine Tomorrow’s classes encourage group interaction as the children work together as a team to reach a common goal. The class works together as a group, collaborating during the interactive video portion of the class where they form their goals and learn the lesson of the day. Next, they work individually on computers to solve the problem and apply the skills they learn. As part of each custom software package, the children work on creative activities that allow them to present their ideas and express the skills they learned.
5. Find and evaluate information related to a current or historical person or event using digital resources. (3)
Imagine Tomorrow works primarily with younger children to teach them how to use technology as a resource. The program builds proficiency in many areas of research including using the Internet, Search Engines, Email, and other forms of technology to discover new information and apply it in a meaningful way. In the context of our lessons the children interact with both a live-action host as well as fictional animated characters that come to life through our original software.
6. Use simulations and graphical organizers to explore and depict patterns of growth such as the life cycles of plants and animals. (1,3,4)
Imagine Tomorrow’s custom software integrates activities that are designed to teach children patterns of growth and life cycles. For example, at File Farm children might work on an activity that teaches them about growing their own plants by first planting seeds, watering them, watching them sprout, and then harvesting the food. The children also learn about animal life cycles with interactions that include bugs hatching from eggs and other integrated experiences.
7. Demonstrate safe and cooperative use of technology. (5)
Imagine Tomorrow teaches safety with every lesson that involves the use of technology as a tool to communicate. We address issues such as Internet safety, encouraging children to only use these tools with an adult. As children learn how to share ideas and communicate using email, text messaging, instant messaging, cell phones, and other devices, Imagine Tomorrow uses simulated experiences to guide children through the process of safely communicating ideas.
8. Independently apply digital tools and resources to address a variety of tasks and problems. (4,6)
Imagine Tomorrow teaches young children to apply new technology skills to solve real problems. Each lesson leads children through a story that is an age appropriate experience designed to teach them how to apply new technology skills to solve an exciting new problem. For example one lesson might focus on keyboarding skills and the children learn to use the backspace key to fix a mixed up message. With different challenges as part of each lesson, the children are constantly engaged in new lessons that feature all new activities customized to that lesson. Every class utilizes a unique custom software package that automatically adapts to each child’s individual ability level to ensure each child understand
how to independently apply these skills.
9. Communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology. (6)
Imagine Tomorrow classes begin with group interactivity where children are introduced to technology terminology that is developmentally appropriate. The terms are introduced as part of a meaningful story that is designed exclusively for young learners. Visiting places like “Microchip Mountains” or “Internet Island”, children are introduced to new concepts and terminology. As the children then work on the custom software, the terminology is reinforced throughout the lesson to continue to expand a child’s understanding. Through creative activities where children simulate emails and other messages, the child can express these technology concepts through words, pictures, and sound.
10. Demonstrate the ability to navigate in virtual environments such as electronic books, simulation software, and Web sites. (6)
The Imagine Tomorrow program uses custom software that allows children to independently navigate a virtual world that is filled with the latest technology. As they explore this environment, children work on activities that simulate real world technology based experiences such as simulated email, messaging, networking, and Internet exploration. Using simulated experiences allows the program to introduce sophisticated high-end concepts in a safe and age appropriate way.
THE National Education Technology Standards (NET-S) 1998 has outlined the following skill areas as part of their profile for early childhood students.
Imagine Tomorrow Computer Classes for Kids aligns to these standards in the ways described below.
Prior to completion of Grade 2 (Age 8) students will have the opportunity to demonstrate the following:
1. Use input devices (e.g., mouse, keyboard, remote control) and output devices (e.g., monitor, printer) to successfully operate computers, VCRs, audiotapes, and other technologies. (I)
Children enrolled in Imagine Tomorrow classes always work on their own computers. Their personalized hands-on experience helps build proficiency with the mouse, keyboard, and other devices. Each class also uses custom software that adapts to each child’s individual ability level. The every original software package combines mouse, keyboard, activities designed to specifically work on these important areas of proficiency. In addition, the Imagine Tomorrow curriculum introduces young children to a wide variety of technology devices from printers and monitors, to web cams and cell phones. These technologies are introduced to children as part of a story that allows children to see the use in an age-appropriate context.
2. Use a variety of media and technology resources for directed and independent learning activities. (I, III)
One of the most important things children learn as part of the Imagine Tomorrow program is that there are many different ways to access information. Through our fun-loving original characters like “Bookworm” and lessons that introduce sophisticated concepts like “search engines” and the Internet, the children learn how to find information to solve problems. As part of each class, children learn a new technology concept and then have the unique opportunity to apply the skill they are learning about to solve the “problem of the day”. The children are encouraged to think independently and
throughout our custom software the students are constantly challenged to make independent creative choices that demonstrate their comprehension.
3. Communicate about technology using developmentally appropriate and accurate terminology. (I)
Imagine Tomorrow classes begin with group interactivity where children are introduced to technology terminology that is developmentally appropriate. The terms are introduced as part of a meaningful story that is designed exclusively for young learners. Visiting places like “Microchip Mountains” or “Internet Island”, children are introduced to new concepts and terminology. As the children then work on the custom software, the terminology is reinforced throughout the lesson to continue to expand a child’s understanding. Through creative activities where children simulate emails and other
messages, the child can express these technology concepts through words, pictures, and sound.
4. Use developmentally appropriate multimedia resources (e.g., interactive books, educational software, elementary multimedia encyclopedias) to support learning. (I)
The Imagine Tomorrow custom software has been designed specifically for early learners. It is the only program that uses a unique software package to teach each lesson. In addition the program utilized rich interactive video content. The program also supports literacy skills which are threaded through each lesson. By teaching young children literacy and technology skills together, the Imagine Tomorrow program is giving children a strong foundation that supports other learning initiatives. Children learn more than how to use the technology. They learn why to use it and when to use it.
5. Work cooperatively and collaboratively with peers, family members, and others when using technology in the classroom. (II)
One of the most exciting components of the Imagine Tomorrow program is the custom website that allows parents to log on from home. Each lesson has its own website with activities that reinforce mouse, keyboard, and creative skills, plus lesson summaries, and ideas for reinforcement for parents. This allows the learning opportunities to be extended to home and be shared with peers, family members and others.
6. Demonstrate positive social and ethical behaviors when using technology. (II)
One of the most powerful things we can teach our young children, in a positive way to promote communication that is meaningful. Imagine Tomorrow gears all lessons towards its young audience understanding that children need to be taught at a young age to use technology to share ideas, work together, and solve problems. These skills will allow children to be the leaders of tomorrow. Our program always encourages positive, meaningful communications and also encourages all different forms of technology based communication from emai l, text messaging, instant messaging, cellular, blue tooth, to networking, and Internet. We simulate positive interactions to guide children as they learn how to use these powerful tools in a safe way.
7. Practice responsible use of technology systems and software. (II)
One of the first lessons Imagine Tomorrow teaches children is to respect technology and respect each other. From simple rules that teach children not to bang on keyboards or be rough on the equipment, to entire lessons that teach skills like shutting down computers properly, the Imagine Tomorrow program is always teaching children to be responsible and respectful of the computers and technology they are using.
8. Create developmentally appropriate multimedia products with support from teachers, family members, or student partners. (III)
Each Imagine Tomorrow lesson follows a project-based approach where at the end of each class the child has successfully completed a new mission using a variety of different tools and techniques. The program integrates all forms of multimedia technology such as video, graphics, sound, and animation. The children not only learn the skills but are given creative tools to self-express what they are learning. These creative opportunities allow teachers to check for comprehension and encourage creative use of the technology. These projects can be extended by teachers, parents, and family through the unique Adventure Journal websites that go along with each lesson and reinforce skills learned.
9. Use technology resources (e.g., puzzles, logical thinking programs, writing tools, and digital cameras, drawing tools) for problem solving, communication, and illustration of thoughts, ideas, and stories. (III, IV, V, VI)
Imagine Tomorrow uses custom software that is rich with puzzles, activities to develop thinking skills, creative writing activities, and other drawing and graphic tools. These components are part of every class and are designed to allow children to further expand on their understanding of the lesson. These activities are also designed to adjust to the child’s ability level allowing children to move from basic letter recognition to word and sentence development using these custom programs.
10. Gather information and communicate with others using telecommunications, with support from teachers, family members, or student partners. (IV)
One of the most exciting things to see when you watch and Imagine Tomorrow class is the way students proudly express the skills that they learn. Our program is rich with interactive segments that encourage children to verbalize the information they are learning and interact in a group setting where they can share the new skills they are acquiring. Imagine Tomorrow believe that true learning occurs when children can apply what they are taught and communicate their ideas successfully. Our program is designed to foster and encourage these skills through our software and interactive videos and also through our unique approach to learning. Children (especially young learners) will develop positive feelings towards communicating their ideas when they are learning in an environment that is positive and designed to lead them to success. Imagine Tomorrow creates software that promotes this approach through lots of positive reinforcement, personal encouragement, and applause and rewards for every success. When children complete the program they are not only learning new technology skills, they are proud to share these experiences with friends and family.
Copyright Imagine Tomorrow 2009
