Research Article
Pairing Craft-Making with Mandarin eBooks: An Investigation into the Potential Use of Craft for Language Learning by Preschoolers
@INPROCEEDINGS{10.1007/978-3-319-55834-9_11, author={Wil-Kie Tan and Stephen Wang and Jeffrey Janet}, title={Pairing Craft-Making with Mandarin eBooks: An Investigation into the Potential Use of Craft for Language Learning by Preschoolers}, proceedings={Interactivity, Game Creation, Design, Learning, and Innovation. 5th International Conference, ArtsIT 2016, and First International Conference, DLI 2016, Esbjerg, Denmark, May 2--3, 2016, Proceedings}, proceedings_a={ARTSIT \& DLI}, year={2017}, month={3}, keywords={Craft Design eBooks Education Mandarin learning Mobile devices Preschool Reading Tangible interaction}, doi={10.1007/978-3-319-55834-9_11} }- Wil-Kie Tan
Stephen Wang
Jeffrey Janet
Year: 2017
Pairing Craft-Making with Mandarin eBooks: An Investigation into the Potential Use of Craft for Language Learning by Preschoolers
ARTSIT & DLI
Springer
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-55834-9_11
Abstract
Bilingual ethnic Chinese parents are concerned about their preschoolers’ learning of their mother tongue. Many allow their children to learn Mandarin by accessing Mandarin language applications on mobile devices. However the effectiveness of solely using mobile devices as a learning tool for preschoolers is debatable. This paper presents a field investigation on how adult-facilitated craft-making promotes interaction between the adults and their children, generates greater interest the reading of Mandarin eBooks and retention of the stories. The data suggests pairing of activities may be useful to children of across language abilities. This also highlights a need for designers and educators to formulate a holistic design approach in the development of preschool mobile learning content.