Dr. Yuko Goto Butler (University of Pennsylvania)

Topic: Possibilities and challenges of using digital technologies in pre-primary language learning

A growing number of children are exposed to digital technologies, such as videos, apps, digital books, and games, from a very young age. While these technologies offer tremendous potential for supporting children’s language learning, they can also have negative impacts. In this talk, I first provide an overview of the current understanding of the role of digital technologies in language learning, based on empirical studies conducted to date in both monolingual and multilingual learning contexts. I then identify key considerations for educators when using these tools with very young children, followed by a discussion of implications for future research and practice.