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

Computers atomic number 18 woven into every aspect of our lives. From the microwave oven that small children can learn to using up to cacoethes 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 education of our children, the use of computers becomes a controversial issue. Of course, as stated above, computers are an everyday tool in the education of children, but the question being asked is, what effect do these computers real have on our children? Are computers being utilise in age-appropriate ways? Do program designers take into account the developmental needs of children? Are teachers receiving sufficient applied science training? Is "learning software" really what it purports to be, or is it simply "edutainment" that reinforces impulsive point-and-click behaviour in the pursuit of a trivial goal? (Healy 1998) Many peck are beginning to wonder well- nigh these questions, 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 many negative issues surrounding the use of computers as educational tools. These range from ineffective learning, impacts on childrens health, creativity, brain development and social and emotional growth. Also, besides the issue of computers affecting childrens development, at that place is the ongoing issue of costs of this new and constantly updating technology. These issues, combined with many others, are beginning to emerge, and we can see why many people are reconsidering the validity 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 pastime fact The American Academy of Paediatrics has expressed conce rn about the amount 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 years 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 hard and long lasting, even permanent. Moreover, they contribute to a wide range of disorders to muscle, joint and tendon damage, to headaches and eyestrain, to seizures and skin problems.