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From smart toys to intelligent learning companions: the use of AI at pre- school age

In today's high-tech world, it is impossible to imagine life without the role of artificial intelligence, and it is also becoming increasingly important in early childhood education.

The use of AI in preschool is part of a broader trend that aims to make educational experiences as effective, accessible and engaging as possible for children. This technology offers potential that goes far beyond traditional learning methods, making it possible to create individualized learning pathways tailored to each child's needs and abilities.


Over the course of this article, we will look at the different facets of AI in preschool. Starting with a basic definition of AI and its importance in the educational context, through to concrete examples of smart toys and intelligent learning companions, we will gain a detailed insight into this fascinating topic.



THE CONCRETE SIGNIFICANCE OF AI AT PRESCHOOL AGE

Pre-school age marks a crucial phase in a child's development in which education plays a fundamental role. Early childhood education forms the foundation for lifelong learning and lays the foundations for cognitive, emotional, social and physical development. During this sensitive phase, important skills such as creativity, problem-solving abilities, critical thinking and social skills are formed, laying the foundation for later educational success.


The use of artificial intelligence in preschool offers a wide range of opportunities to further improve and personalize these educational experiences. Especially now, i t i s important to better teach children their individual strengths and weaknesses and to be able to pursue their learning goals more effectively. This also enables early identification of learning difficulties and the provision of targeted support and interventions.


Another important aspect is the promotion of digital skills from pre-school age. By exposing children to technologies such as AI at an early age, they can develop important skills in the use of digital media and tools, which are becoming increasingly important in today's digital world.


SMART TOYS AS AN INTRODUCTION

Do you already know the important effects of using smart toys? It has been found to be a fascinating and extremely effective way of introducing children to the concepts and applications of artificial intelligence at an early age. Playful learning is very popular with young children. These interactive toys are not just for entertainment, but also provide a valuable opportunity to develop children's understanding and skills with AI.


By using voice assistants like Amazon Echo Dot Kids Edition or interactive learning robots like Cozmo, children are encouraged to ask questions, give commands and solve complex problems. These interactive experiences not only encourage children's critical thinking and problem-solving skills, but also allow them to develop a basic understanding of how AI works.


Another important aspect of smart toys is the promotion of creativity and imagination in children. By interacting with smart educational toys, children can unleash their imagination and create their own stories, games and adventures. These creative activities help children develop their cognitive skills and explore their own world of possibilities.


Many of these toys allow children to play together, work together and solve problems together. By working together with other children, they learn important social skills such as teamwork, communication and conflict resolution, which are crucial for their personal and social development.


FROM SMART TOYS TO INTELLIGENT LEARNING COMPANIONS

The transition from smart toys to intelligent learning companions marks an evolutionary development in the use of artificial intelligence at pre-school age. While smart toys offer an important introduction to the world of AI, intelligent learning companions go one step further by using specially developed applications and platforms to specifically support and promote children's learning.


The differences:

  • Intelligent learning companions are designed to take into account the individual needs and abilities of each child. Unlike smart toys, they offer personalized learning content and activities that are tailored to the child's individual learning progress, interests and pace.


  • They also use advanced AI algorithms to support and promote children's learning in a targeted manner. These algorithms continuously analyze the children's learning progress, identify individual strengths and weaknesses and adapt the curriculum accordingly. This enables children to learn more effectively and develop their full potential.


  • In addition, they enable teachers and parents to closely monitor and analyze children's learning progress. They provide detailed insights into children's learning behavior, identify areas where additional support is needed and recommend personalized learning activities and resources. This allows teachers and parents to intervene in a targeted way to maximize children's learning success and meet their individual needs.


DATA PROTECTION AND SECURITY DURING USE

The use of artificial intelligence at pre-school age has many advantages, but it is of the utmost importance that data protection and security are guaranteed. Especially when using intelligent learning companions, parents and teachers must ensure that children's privacy and safety are always protected. This also includes compliance with legal regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union.


Smart learning guides should therefore use mechanisms to anonymize and encrypt data to ensure children's privacy and security. Personal data should be anonymized and encrypted to ensure that it cannot be viewed or misused by unauthorized persons. In addition, data should be stored on secure servers and protected from unauthorized access.


Parents also play an important role in ensuring data privacy and security. Smart learning guides should have transparent guidelines for data collection and the school should have a clear understanding of how the data is used and ensure that it is used solely for educational purposes. There should be clear communication with parents about what data is collected, how it is used and how it is protected. Transparency is key!


WITH THESE MEASURES SAFETY CAN BE GUARANTEED

The use of encryption technologies is a fundamental measure. Encryption converts data into a non-readable form so that it can only be decrypted with a corresponding key. This ensures that even in the event of potential data theft, the information does not fall into the wrong hands.


It is important that data is transferred securely, especially when it is exchanged between different devices or platforms. The use of secure data transmission methods such as encrypted connections and secure network protocols ensures that data is protected during transmission and cannot be intercepted or manipulated.


Access to sensitive data should also be strictly controlled and restricted to prevent unauthorized access. This can be done by implementing access controls and permissions to ensure that only authorized individuals can access certain data. In addition, passwords and authentication methods should be used to ensure that only authorized users can access the systems.


FUTURE PROSPECTS FOR EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT WITH AI

The future of AI in preschool is full of potential and promises continuous innovation and development. Intelligent learning companions are becoming increasingly effective and efficient, allowing them to play an even greater role in supporting children's education and development.


However, it is important that teachers, parents and educational institutions recognize the potential of AI in preschool and use it wisely to enrich children's educational experiences. Through continuous education, training and responsible use, we can ensure that preschool AI can reach its full potential while ensuring the safety and privacy of children.


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