Utilizing digital technology in teaching practices in kindergarten in Finland

Sammanfattning: The present study aims to investigate early childhood educators' experiences with digital technology and its integration in their teaching practices in kindergartens in Finland and their beliefs on the impact on children's learning. Digital technology has already influenced various aspects of life, and it would be inevitable not to impact Early Childhood Education settings. Therefore, it is essential to scrutinize early childhood educators' experience regarding the implementation of digital technology in everyday life in kindergarten, how they involve children with it, and their perspective on the impact on children's learning. The abovementioned rationale motivated the present qualitative research study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six early childhood educators who work actively in kindergartens in Finland. The interview consisted of open-ended questions, which attempted to delve into early childhood educators' beliefs on the role of digital technology in Early Childhood Education, the ways of implementation in kindergarten, and the effects on children's learning. The collected data from the semi-structured interviews were analyzed through thematic analysis. The findings revealed that the participants of the study use partially digital technology equipment in the kindergarten with children. However, they strongly believe they need more training to implement digital technology in Early Childhood Education adequately. Despite their feelings, they attempt to support children with utilizing digital technology. Moreover, the analysis of the collected data showed that children have the opportunity to practice emotional and social skills while using digital technology equipment but learn the conventional use of the digital devices too.