Use of Technological Resources in the Acquisition of Language Skills in Early Childhood Development and Education Programmes in Gem Sub-County, Kenya

Abstract

Research findings world over indicates that technology has revolutionized teaching and learning at all levels of education. However, in Gem Sub-County in the Republic of Kenya concerns have been raised with regard to the use of technological resources in the acquisition of language skills. The objective of this article was to establish the use of technological resources in the acquisition of language skills in early childhood development and education programmes in Gem Sub-County. It adopted descriptive survey design. The study involved 68 ECDE teachers drawn from 115 ECDE centers in Gem Sub-County, Kenya selected by purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data was collected by use of questionnaires and interview schedules. Data was analyzed using the study found that teacher preparedness, availability of technology resources and administrative support had influence on the acquisition of language skills. The study recommends: the incorporation to the training curriculum of technological aspects so that teachers should be trained in selection and use of technology. This would enable the teachers to gain both theory and practical skills; the government and other stakeholders should come up with a programme of supplying
technological resources to enhance learning not only of sensitization on the safety measures and also provide safe resources ; the school administrators should be sensitized on their roles in supporting the provision of conducive environments so as to promote the use of technology and finally in-service training for ECDE teachers on the emerging issues with regard to
technological resources.