Beyond Technology "How-To": Teaching "Why"

If a child only experiences a computer as something to play games on, they may get to be quick with the mouse or fast on the keyboard, but they are not really learning to use technology as a meaningful skill. However, when a child is given an age-appropriate way to apply technology skills to find information, communicate and share ideas, and solve problems – you begin to unlock a child’s true potential to use technology to learn.

Imagine Tomorrow’s philosophy on learning is powerful because it centers on the idea that kids learn best when they have a purpose. Too many websites and computer software programs have kids clicking through games for no reason other than to get to the next level or earn more points. Even an educational activity that teaches a skill like letters or numbers loses its potential when it is delivered in isolation and without a purpose. This is why Imagine Tomorrow thoughtfully builds each lesson around a story that teaches children to use a new technology skill to solve a funny, child-friendly problem. We give them a reason WHY.

Technology is going to keep changing throughout their lifetime. If you teach children more than just how, but really give them an understanding of WHY, they will continue to be able to adapt and apply their skills to whatever type of technology they are using.