This study explored the viability of tablet computers in early education
by investigating preschool children’s ease in acclimating to tablet technology
and its effectiveness in engaging them to draw. A total of 41 three- to
six-year-old children were videotaped while they used the tablets. The study
found significant differences in level of tablet use between sessions, and
engagement increased with age. Teachers reported high child interest and
drawings as typical to above expectation. Children quickly developed ease with
the sty-lus for drawing. Although technical issues in learning this new
technology were encountered, children were interested and persisted without
frustration. What seems to matter for children’s learning is the ways teachers
choose to implement this technology. (Keywords: technology and young children,
tablet computers, computers and early education, pentop computing)