ABSTRACT
When young children use paints and crayons, the direct involvement they have is of handling physical materials. The physical, rather than electronic nature of paint is one of its main attractions. The pressure of a crayon on paper, a container of colours to choose from and wearing an apron is all part of the excitement. How, then, is it that children are also interested in using a computer to generate images? Could it be that computer programs have something special to offer just as engaging as paint and paper? Computers can certainly be found in nurseries and reception classes besides being used by older children. Many children also see computers being used in the home and in shops so these are familiar objects no more mysterious to them than washing machines.
