How Do Young Children Learn about Photography?

Abstract

Photography is increasingly used in research with children and as a learning tool in early childhood classrooms. However, very few studies have examined how young children encounter and experience the use of cameras. This paper describes a project conducted over a three-month period in which a class of 31 five-to six-year-old children in a Hong Kong preschool learned to use digital cameras. The project had three stages: (1) learning to use a camera, (2) practising photography skills, and (3) expression through photography. The children's experiences of learning to use digital cameras throughout the project were documented infield notes, photos taken by the children, and photos and video taken by the researchers. The project demonstrated the potential and possibilities of using photography in research and learning in early childhood education. The substantive steps used in this project to introduce photography to children can be a reference point for both teachers and researchers.

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“…In Varvantakis and Nolas's 2020 study, children participated in photography competitions run by charities, newspapers, and educational institutions. Wong (2020) has studied the practical issues of using a digital camera in a preschool environment, investigating how children learn about photography through action.…”

The “Shaken Photos” Project as a Stimulus for Developing Creative Thinking with Preschoolers

“…Some researchers focus on photography in education as a way for children to document daily life and experience as well as to express their ideas for the social environment (Schiller & Tillett, 2004). Researchers also focus on technical issues such as learning to use a camera and practicing photography skills, along with children expressing themselves through photography (Wong, 2020). The camera has also been used in conceptual science investigations with preschoolers (Britsch, 2019).…”