So often we hear that too much television watching is harmful to children. Our society has attributed childhood obesity to watching too much television. Now the concern is shifting to technology. Ever since tablets and smartphones have gained popularity society has started to question technology's impact on our youth. Should we allow children to play with tablets and smartphones? My answer to this question is a resounding: YES!!! Computers in general are so much more intuitive to use than they were in the past. Therefore, they are much more user friendly which is why even very young children are able to use them with ease.
We all know that as soon as you buy a piece of technology like a computer, digital camera, smartphone, or even a television that it is outdated. Keeping this notion in mind is why we need to keep our children up to date on learning how to use the various types of technology available. When a child plays with a computer, it is interactive. They may be learning about their favorite animals and their environment. Or, maybe your child is interested in space and they begin to discover the differences between stars and planets. But, if they were just watching television, then they are at the mercy of the programing. They are passively watching the television.
Clearly technology wins this debate hands down. Encourage your children to play and explore on different types of technology and soak up as much information as they can. In the end, it will keep them ahead of the learning curve.
I don't completely agree with you, but I do agree that children should know about technology. They should know the basic functions of any technological device.
ReplyDeleteI think that it is essential that children have access and know how to use all types of technology, just like I think that it is essential that technology be available in the learning environments to engage students. Is it the only element that needs to be used in education? Absolutely not! I think students should be able to perform basic math functions in their heads without a calculators. When I grew up, TV was my technology and the days that I spent watching Sesame Street, Andy Griffith and some of the other shows that I loved to watch added value to my life. With that being said, the best way to approach children using technology is "all things in moderation". Would we be taking this class online if it were not for technology?
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that society does move from one thing to the other to complain about child obesity. It started with television and now they have moved on to computers and technology. I am a parent and I would have to say that TV and technology are a part of my son life. I let him watch only educational television shows for his age group. I also let him use my smartphone. I have downloaded apps that are educational as well. With that being said I do not let him use them all the time. I think it is about balance. Everything connected to technology in moderation is a good thing. Our children need to learn it because it will be a part of their future. Therefore I agree with you YES to tablets and smartphones.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you! Since Technology is constantly changing, it is a good resource for children. My 3 year old goes to daycare where they teach them about computers and give them hands on experience on how to correctly use it. And allowing technology to be a part of a home is great for all ages. Soon or later, everything wilol have a tie in with technology.
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