Usage of computers at the elementary level enables students gain an in-depth understanding of working with different software applications. There are instances of elementary teachers giving examples of their students creating music on computer (see Reference 1). There is also the example of Skyline Elementary School where students prepare their reports using multimedia software, incorporating sounds and visual effects (see Reference 2). This practical knowledge of how different software applications work lays a lasting foundation for their future technical endeavors as they move into the career phase. The applications they learn may become outdated but exposure to the skills at an early age gives them confidence to handle new software applications. (See Reference 1.)
Computer-Based Instruction or CBI increases student performance, reveals a 1991 report by Kulik and Kulik, based on data obtained from at least 240 studies spanning students across all levels, from elementary to adult. These studies, most of which centered on K-12 students, had 81 percent of them saying that students receiving CBI scored better than their counterparts in traditional learning settings without computers. A student in a typical CBI setting showed 62 percent performance in examination whereas a student learning with conventional methods showed only 50 percent performance on the same exam. In addition, one CBI student did better than 62 percent of students in traditional learning classes. (See Reference 3.)
As students gain knowledge and experience in computer usage, they explore different ways of presenting their information -- through text, videos or sound -- and think of the ones that can most accurately convey their thoughts. An elementary school teacher shares the example of how students think of using different font styles and formatting for information they consider significant (see Reference 1). CBI also makes students sensitive to audience needs and their way of thinking, as they look for reaction from their peers to their presentation of information. (See Reference 1.)
Acquisition of technical skills gives students more avenues to express themselves; for example a student can explain his understanding of a lesson through a multimedia presentation. This way, he is more closely involved in learning than in traditional instruction methods. There is an increase in confidence and self-esteem of students as a result of this improved learning. As their involvement in learning activities increases, a change in their perception of their school ensues, leading to lower absenteeism rates. (See Reference 3.)