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Rather than being introduced as an end in itself, technology and its uses should be integrated into an existing set of curricular activities, in such a way that it adds a new dimension to these activities.
By using a Mains Switcher box and a suitable switch, the pupil can control devices operated by mains electricity, such as lamps, bubble columns, hair dryers, fans, food mixers, and so on."
The 5-14 Curriculum in Scotland offers a useful framework within which learning experiences may be structured for example around particular themes. For example the Learning Centre in Lockerbie Primary School chose water as a theme through which to integrate areas of 5-14 Curriculum. As part of the water theme, activities were devised which make use of an aquarium. A Mains Switcher, in this case operating a lamp illuminating a fish tank, encourages a degree of independent control, a key part of the Personal and Social Development strand.
The aquarium acts as a topic base within which to encourage turn-taking in conversation, an early communication skill. By pressing on a taction pad attached to the fish food, a spoken instruction to “feed the fish” can be produced.
Other concepts such as number, time and events happening that week, can be used to develop listening skills. Attaching a switch to a toy squirt gun can give the pupil responsibility to water the plants although unable to use an ordinary watering can.
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