Resources

From tablets and cell phones to gaming consoles to computers, children are increasingly interacting with technology and interactive media.

Early research suggests that interactive education media, including digital learning games, can be a useful instructional tool for teachers in the preschool classroom.

This report explores how the PBS Kids Curious George’s Busy Day transmedia suite, used as a summer school intervention program, supported preschool mathematics learning. The report also examines the features and benefits of transmedia-based learning in preschool.

Key Findings

• Over the course of the Curious George mathematics intervention, children’s knowledge of mathematics increased significantly
• The playful and engaging structure and narrative of the transmedia suite were highly motivating for the children
• The use of the intervention led to opportunities for developing children’s socio-emotional skills
• By working together, children learned digital literacy skills from one another
• Children were able to practice skills until they had mastered them at their own pace

The report also discusses the need for teacher professional development for transmedia learning.