Content. Having the technology and knowing how to
use it make it possible to create content and to benefit
from content created by others. Children and adults can
use technology tools to publish for their own child care
communities or to share ideas with a broader audience
by publishing on the Internet. Online publishing can take
many forms, including stories, drawings, multimedia
slide shows, original songs, digital
videos, or professional development
materials.
Issues to consider in the creation of
information include the literacy level
of the learner, availability in language
that is easily understood, relevancy to
the viewer, clarity of presentation, and
accessibility to people with a range of
abilities. Various types of content must
be created to meet the diverse needs
found in society. For example, there
are many Websites with early education
information, ranging from simple
to more complex articles, some with
text supported by video or audio clips.
Online publishing provides an
opportunity to share ideas, exchange
information, and receive feedback,
which can extend and strengthen the
learning process. Imagine a preschool
program posting a digital photo and
children’s stories on its Website,
describing the day children found a
butterfly, put out sugar water, and
watched the butterfly drink through its
proboscis. When an entomologist
reads their work, writes back sharing
interesting facts, and responds to their
observations, children know their
work has been considered and valued.
Or perhaps online documentation of a
long-term “chicken” study helps a
classroom connect and exchange ideas
and approaches with others learning
about the same topic.