Abstract:

The paper presents the importance and the need of using digital learning materials in teaching and learning in both, the kindergartens and the first grades of the elementary school. In the beginning of their education, the students are faced with a variety of challenges, including understanding new concepts, phenomena and processes in different areas of science and life. It is crucial the students, especially the youngest ones to study in an interesting and fun way by including visualization. For this purpose, carefully used electronic content could be of great use. This paper will explore the use of several successful learning software tools, such as ToolKid, Logo, Scratch and GeoGebra. We will also discuss their main advantages and applications. The importance of algorithmic and computer thinking for all students will be also considered.

Through selected and concrete animations, simulations and computer games created by the author, he will demonstrate how to effectively use digital teaching materials in a way that is most appropriate for the youngest students.

The applications under consideration include: use of abacus for basic arithmetic operations, exercises with analog and digital time, exercises with fractions, memory games, etc.

Other issues that will be considered in this paper are: "How information and communication technology can be applied in primary school?", "How often information and communication technology should be used in teaching with the youngest students?", and “What are the most challenges applications for young students and what is the recommended age for their use?”.

Keywords:

Educational software, digital learning materials, visualisation, algorithmic and computer thinking, ToolKid, Logo, Scratch, Geogebra.