Computer Explorers: Holiday Tech Gifts Can Expand Education for Kids
Franchisor creates local tech experts and turns holiday gifts into learning opportunities
HOUSTON, Dec. 14, 2010 // PRNewswire // -- Think giving electronics for gifts will turn kids into couch potatoes?
Laptops, iPads and video game consoles are among the most popular holiday presents and they often get a bad rap for dumbing down kids. Yet popular technology gifts can engage children in activities that reinforce learning across core subjects and develop important problem-solving skills, says Cyndee Perkins, director of curriculum and program development at Computer Explorers, a Houston-based education technology franchise system.
Computer Explorers is an expert at creating programs that combine technology with learning and entertainment and positioning local franchise owners as experts in their communities. "We were poised and ready when the iPad came out," said Perkins. "Within six weeks we had a full curriculum."
With the right training, kids can use some of these holiday gifts to design video games, write basic computer programs and better understand the world, she said. "Kids get so excited they forget they are learning. Their ability to absorb knowledge and apply it is really amazing and inspiring."
Technology changes daily and keeping current technology in the classroom is a challenge. "Schools can't afford to replace software systems annually nor can they afford to staff classes with teachers trained on the full range of software that has just hit the market," said Perkins. "Our local owners not only provide opportunities for students to build critical and current skills that extend the range of their learning but they also serve as resources who can help educators navigate this often confusing area."
In addition to in-school programs Computer Explorers offers opportunities for kids to create 3-D worlds, program robots, make green-screen movies and experiment with other cutting-edge technology such as iPads; children ages 3 to 16 master technology skills at an early age. The extracurricular classes are taught in public and private schools, after-school programs, camps, pre-schools and youth organizations.
Computer Explorers was founded in 1983 and teaches more than 25,000 students a week through 60 franchise locations in the U.S. and five foreign countries. For more information about education and technology, as well as franchisee opportunities, go to http://computerexplorers.com.
Contact: Cyndee Perkins, Computer Explorers' director of curriculum and program development
Phone: 800-531-5053
Email: cperkins@iced.net
SOURCE Computer Explorers
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