Technology & Awareness | Why Us | The Approach/Skills

 

How we differ from other Computer Programs & Software?

Why you just can't teach the same thing at home...

 A parent of an IT student has explained it easily..."The only similarity between Imagine Tomorrow and other computer programs is that you both use computers!" 

 IT is a fully interactive class experience designed exclusively for young learners. It's the perfect mix of individual and group activities, and builds essential thinking and learning skills while learning to use the computer as a meaningful tool for their future.  The way the class is delivered is completely different in 3 distinct areas:

 

1.) Ratio:

Typically, in other computer enrichment programs offered at schools, the children must share the computer. In many situations, it is 4 children per 1 computer per 30 minutes. That means a child may only be on the computer for 7-8 minutes each. In our environment, children each use their own computers, so they can move ahead individually at their own academic and technical pace.

 

2.) Software:

No other competitor has their own proprietary software. They use off-the-shelf software you can purchase anywhere. Children learn very basic mouse and keyboard skills. Where they stop in their curriculum, Imagine Tomorrow begins.  Research has shown that the future success of skills learned are best taught through engaging literacy experiences. Imagine Tomorrow has its own software custom-designed for each lesson where children are immersed into a learning experience which integrates the latest in digital/mobile concepts while reinforcing preschool and kindergarten academic skills and literacy skills.

 

3.) Philosophy:

 The philosophy of Imagine Tomorrow is completely different than other programs. The purpose is to teach children to become better thinkers, learners, and creators, while learning to use technology as a tool. Other programs teach computer-based lessons in isolation and in a very linear way. Imagine Tomorrow immerses a child as the main character in each lesson, so each class is an experience that they will be able to apply to the real world. The entire learning process is more fun and meaningful, and children build confidence in the accomplishment of the mission in each lesson.

 

Why Can't I just teach my child at home?

 

Children come for a class but leave with an experience. They develop a positive attitude toward learning as they think creatively to solve computer problems that integrate concepts such as email, hotspots, Internet and cellular in a fun, age-appropriate way. The curriculum and software has been developed since 1991, is nationally-recognized, and is completely unlike any other software program.

What makes Imagine Tomorrow Computer Classes so unique?

 

Imagine Tomorrow computer classes are the first totally interactive learning

experience that is delivered through original, technology-based episodes geared specifically for young learners. The unique program combines the entertainment of great television, the interactivity of software, and the learning structure of a preschool/kindergarten class. The result is a one-of-a-kind activity both parents and kids love because it is educational, innovative, and fun! Further, kids today love technology and especially enjoy working on websites like noggin.com, Disney.com, pbskis.org.While these all offer some stand alone activities that can be entertaining and even have some academic skills involved, they don not teach technology concepts and how to use computers as a tool. 

How is the curriculum different than other online websites or software?

 

The big difference between going to these websites as entertainment and taking our classes would be that our classes are designed to teach children the meaningful uses of technology in an age appropriate way. They learn sophisticated technology concepts and skills each lesson, guided by a teacher that emphasizes that computers are not just for playing games (like on noggin.com) but they are tools that we can use to solve problems. That is why every class is based on a mission delivered in a story format that encourages early literacy skills.

In addition, children learn to use the computer as a communication tool as they write emails, send instant messages, or even text message on a cell phone in a totally safe and simulated environment. Also, our custom software automatically adjusts to each child's individual ability level so that they are always being challenged at the appropriate academic and technology skill levels. This is not something found on general websites. Our software also pulls together a great combination of skill areas so during each episode they will work on keyboards, mouse, and creativity skills in addition to the technology skill of the day.

Finally, there is a lot to be gained from the class setting. Young children should never be left alone on computers (especially on the Internet) because it is just not safe. In a class they not only get personal attention, they also get the social skills and group skills that are built into our lessons. Our group portion of the class encourages imagination, physical role play, leadership, and important listening skills. Our questions are developed by educators to constantly check for comprehension and address children of different learning styles so that each child feels success. When a child completes a mission it is a big deal. They not only have finished the software activities, they have truly accomplished something. It is that feeling of accomplishment that builds confidence and fosters future success that often carries over to home and school as well.

While time on the Internet at home can offer some fun and entertainment and even a little academic content, it cannot compare to the wealth of skills that a child would achieve in an Imagine Tomorrow class setting.

 

If your would like specifics on a certain computer program vs. Imagine Tomorrow's?  Please let us know and we will be happy to provide you with the differences.

Technology & Awareness | Why Us | The Approach/Skills