Relationship between Preschoolers’ Digital Technologies Usage and Their Literacy Skills in Kwara State, Nigeria
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2023-12
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
INternational Journal of Tropical Educational Issues
Abstract
As technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, understanding its impact on early childhood education is crucial. This study looked at the connection between preschoolers' use of digital technology and their literacy skills, employing a descriptive survey design. The study encompassed the entire population of preschool children in Kwara State. 600 children from private and public schools were sampled from using a simple random sampling technique. Participants ranged in age from 4 to 5 years old. Instruments included the Preschoolers' Digital Technologies Usage Rating Scale (PDUERS) and Preschoolers Literacy Skills Rating Scale (PLSRS), with reliability indices of 0.82 and 0.78, respectively. Analyzing data with frequency count, percentage, mean, and Pearson Product Moment Correlation, the study revealed a concerning inadequacy in both digital technology use and literacy among preschoolers. The findings underscored a significant correlation between digital technology use and literacy abilities. Recommendations include providing access to digital devices for literacy development, advocating for the integration of digital tools like computers, televisions, tablets, and picture books in both preschool and home settings.
Description
Keywords
Digital technologies, Early literacy, Literacy skills, Language, Preschoolers