The+Computer+in+the+Early+Childhood+Classroom +Peer+Helping+and+Peer+Teaching.

__**Article Name:**__ [|The Computer in the Early Childhood Classroom: Peer Helping and Peer Teaching.]

__**Article Author:**__ Cynthia Paris, Sandra Morris

__**Abstract:**__ The purpose of this study was to determine the conditions under which children at **//computers//** help or teach each other and to identify ways teachers might efficiently prepare and supervise a **//computer//** area. A total of 36 observations were collected of 4- through 7-year-old children and their teachers in three **//early//** **//childhood//** programs. One hundred and thirty-six teaching and learning events were isolated and labeled either "successful" or "unsuccessful." These events were then reviewed and elements associated with successful and unsuccessful teaching and learning were identified. Results indicate (1) children can be effective teachers and helpers; (2) children can use both verbal instruction and demonstration as successful teaching techniques; (3) children were most likely to accept help when they asked for it and reject unsolicited help; (4) unproductive uses of teacher time were quizzing or offering help before students request it; and (5) effective uses of teacher time at the **//computer//** were prompting children to teach-help and respond to requests for specific help.

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