Developing an App-Based Library Programme to Support Early Childhood Learning

摘要

The aim of this research project has been todevelop a mobile app-based library programmeto support early childhood learning. The app-based library programme involved the design,implementation and evaluation of six workshopsbetween July and September 2014 in a medium-sized public library in north Taiwan. This researchcontributes to a growing literature that providesevidence of the value of handheld devices andapps in contributing to early childhood learning,particularly in the context of public libraries. Thepotential of apps for fostering early childhoodlearning in public libraries in Taiwan is recognisedand it is suggested that library staff need time forprofessional development and experimentation ifthey are to respond appropriately to new digitaltechnologies. Limitations of this research projectare acknowledged and suggestions for futureresearch in this area are also provided.