Are Computers Putting Our Childrens Education at Risk? :: essays research papers

Computers are woven into every aspect of our lives. From the microwave oven that small children offer learn to use to heat up a hot dog, to the computers under the hoods of our cars, we interact with computers whether we realise it or not. (Campbell, 1999). But when it comes to the information of our children, the use of computers becomes a controversial issue. Of course, as stated above, computers are an common tool in the education of children, but the question being asked is, what stamp do these computers really have on our children? Are computers being employ in age-appropriate ways? Do program designers take into account the developmental needs of children? Are teachers receiving sufficient technology training? Is "learning software program" really what it purports to be, or is it simply "edutainment" that reinforces impulsive point-and-click behaviour in the following of a trivial goal? (Healy 1998) Many people are starting line to wonder about these q uestions, and are coming to the conclusion that computers may be very harmful to the development of our children. Academically, physically, socially and emotionally.      There are some(prenominal) proscribe issues surrounding the use of computers as educational tools. These range from inefficacious learning, impacts on childrens health, creativity, brain development and social and emotional growth. Also, in any event the issue of computers affecting childrens development, there is the ongoing issue of cost of this new and constantly updating technology. These issues, combined with many others, are starting signal to emerge, and we can see why many people are reconsidering the hardihood of computers in education, especially that of young, primary school-aged children. In relation to the issue of the negative effects computers have on the physical development of children, Jane Healy has presented the following circumstance The American Academy of Paediatrics has expressed concern about the kernel of time children spend in front of various types of screens, and several experts in eye development have stated that computer use is creating problems in children developing visual systems. (Healy 1998, p.18)Healy also cites literature that suggests that during the first six historic period of life, misuses of technology may adversely affect brain maturation and development. Computers do have physical effects on those who use them, and these effects can be serious and long lasting, even permanent. Moreover, they contribute to a full range of disorders to muscle, joint and tendon damage, to headaches and eyestrain, to seizures and skin problems.