Computers and Child Development Vanya V. Yorgova
Jan 03, 2016
History of Child Development
1920s - Jean Piaget• Intelligence testing on children
1930s – Vygotsky• Adult intervention
Piget Stages of Development
Sensorimotor: Birth through 18-24 months
Preoperational: 18-24 months through age 7
Concrete operational: Ages 7 to 12 Formal operational: Adolescence
through adulthood
Child Computer Usage Daily computer
use:• 12 % of children 2-4• 22 % of children 5-8• Children 8-18 spend
more than 7.5 hours recommendation
of American Academy of Pediatrics: • 1-2 hours for
children 3-18
Preoperational Stage Analysis of environment using mental
symbols Pretending to be others Become attentive to one thing
Computers cause too much sensory input• Either ignore or are overstimulated
Conccrete Stage Able to manipulate
mental symbols Form logical thought Being forming plans for
solving problems
Computers rarely allow for problem –solving• Same preset response every
time
Formal Operations Stage Form more rational and abstract
thought Understand why others act that way Give sustained attention
Computers allow for multitasking• Divided attention• Distract from personal relationships
Impact of Computers
Physical Toll: Back and neck problems Carpal tunnel syndrome Less blinking => irritated eyes Lack of activity => obesity Overloaded senses
Impact of Computers
Social Impact Lonelier More prone to
depression May cause more
aggression Addiction Lack of attention
paid in class
Positive Impacts Better academic performance Higher computer literacy b
• Better at reading and visualizing 3D
Solving the Problems
Physical: VR will develop posture Screens will become safer for eyes
Social A different type of social structure Banning electronics in schools Pushing after-school activities
Solving the Problems
Developmental: Sociologists should develop software Limit usage of computers <5 year-
olds Better education to parents Government restrictions on gaming
content
Change in Future Years Huge changes after this generation Studies will leave conclusive
evidence
Technology will develop -> safer experience
References http://www.vibrantlife.com/?p=144 https://www.princeton.edu/
futureofchildren/publications/docs/10_02_05.pdf
http://serendip.brynmawr.edu/exchange/node/336
http://www.livestrong.com/article/85306-negative-effects-computers-children/
http://www.webmd.com/children/piaget-stages-of-development