The document discusses research on when children should be exposed to computers and the benefits and concerns. It notes that children under age 2 should avoid screen time, and from ages 2-3 limited introduction is appropriate. Benefits of preschool computer use include improved skills, but concerns include increased obesity and interference with development. The consensus is that introduction from age 3 can be beneficial when supervised and used in moderation as an educational tool.
3. Technology use in the classroom is increasing
and its importance is noted in new standards
See National Technology Standards and NETP
2010
Technology use at home is also increasing
Research Question:
At what age should children be exposed to
computers and software, and what are the
benefits and concerns?
4. AAP Guidelines state that parents should
“avoid television-viewing [and computer use]
entirely for children who are younger than 2
years and…encourage more interactive
activities that will promote proper brain
development, such as talking, playing,
singing, and reading together” (Vandewater,
2007)
http://www.aap.org/
5. Ageat which children should be exposed to
technology varies depending on the study;
however, most researchers agree that:
Children under age 2 or 3 should not be exposed
because computers do not match the learning
style of this age group – they are learning to
crawl, walk, and master other non-technological
skills
Once children are in preschool it is acceptable to
begin introducing technology, under
teacher/parent supervision
6. Some
concerns of exposing children to
computers at a young age:
Increase in obesity rate among children (spend
too much time in front of a screen rather than
outdoors playing)
Interference with brain development, health,
and social and emotional growth
Children become more screen-focused, rather
than people-focused (issues with social
development and interactions)
7. Benefits
of exposing children to computers in
preschool:
Build memory skills
Become more self-directed learners
Learn problem solving skills
Increased self-esteem
Working with others
Improved motor skills
Added benefits for children with special needs
8. As a group, we agree that children under 3
should not be fully engaged with computers
because of possible interference with
important developmental stages at that age
We also believe that children should be
introduced rather early in order to keep up
with the digital age in which we live
Technology is an important part of life, and
an invaluable educational tool, as long as it
is used in moderation, especially with young
children
9. Children should not be introduced to
computers and software until age three
When introduced, it should be under
supervision by teacher or parent, and used in
moderation as a teaching tool
Introduce them to software that encourages
them to make, design, and create things
Children should be introduced to computers
using only developmentally appropriate
software
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