Computer Effects on Children
The effect that computers have on children is a widely debated two-edged sword. Proponents tout the academic, cognitive and work training benefits. On the other hand, the uncontrolled nature of the Internet and health concerns present dangers that responsible parents and teachers should not ignore.
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Physical Consequences
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The Weight Loss Wand website reports that many doctors warn that the long periods of inactivity in front of the computer screen can contribute to issues of physical well-being, such as childhood obesity and motor development.
Cognitive and Social/Emotional Consequences
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Although parents and educators increasingly consider computer literacy a must, "many fear the effects that computer gaming, instant messaging, long hours of use, savvy advertising, and interaction with online predators may have on children's cognitive and emotional well-being and development," according to the National Academies' Board on Children Youth and Families. (NA-BOCYF) Some are concerned that the hours spent at a computer screen will stunt social, emotional and language development.
Communicative Springboard
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The Northwest Educational Technology Consortium (NETC) agrees that technology is no substitute for human relationships or interactive activities such as reading and conversing with one another. But adds that when properly used, computers can actually serve as a springboard for conversations and social interactions, which encourage language development and social skills.
Opportunities for Academic Success
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Computer-assisted learning also gives children with some learning styles an opportunity to shine in ways that otherwise often go unrecognized and unappreciated. NETC further reports research, which indicates that students whose offline learning is supplemented with computer-based activities "had significantly greater gains in verbal and nonverbal skills, problem solving, abstraction, and conceptual skills....and showed more sophistication in classification and logical thinking." In order to optimize student benefits from classroom technology, schools must ensure equal access and teachers must receive training in integrating their subject matter with available computer resources.
Work-Training Benefits
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Computers are virtually everywhere now so the child who will someday enter the workforce gains great advantage by mastering computer skills from a young age. Familiarity and comfort with technology will go a long way toward giving them employable skills for the future.
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