Computers and Child Development

Vanya V. Yorgova

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

Sensorimotor Stage Object permanence

Computers are confusing in establishing permanence

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