This week we looked at technology and learning. There are a couple main thoughts: does exposure to technology help or hurt children? Why do children seem to know intuitively how to operate technology (smartphones, VCRs, MP3 players, tablets, etc.)
Having grown up in the technology age, I don't believe technology has hurt me, but of course, I am hardly objective about it. My son has been using a computer of one type or another since he was four or five years old (or younger). He learned to use a mouse and/or trackball pointing device quickly and then applied that to other devices (toys) that tried to be computer-like. As he has gotten older, he has learned to use touch screens (smartphones, tablets) as well as the mouse.
Learning to read improved his ability to navigate through various technology devices (VCRs, video game consoles, etc.) and learning the meaning of words like "source," "menu," "auxiliary," etc., has further empowered him to navigate his way autonomously across devices.
Of the newer devices we have in our home because of our twin four-year old daughters, I notice device manufacturers and/or software developers are pairing words with images on the controls (Leapster, Leapfrog tablet) of devices for children, allowing kids to navigate through the various screens to play games by themselves at even younger ages. What's interesting is that I notice these same "icons" on devices (Kindle, smartphones, etc.) for adults, too.
I think manufacturers are working to make the interfaces more simple and intuitive for all ages, reducing reading as a barrier for use. Much the way the universal roadway signs are used across the globe now, ensuring drivers know the road ahead is "curvy" because of the picture on the sign, not because the driver can read the words "sharp turn ahead" if the sign is in English and the driver is fluent in French.
There has been some research (oddly, much of it coming from the UK) trying to determine if the early use of technology is harmful to children. My review of the literature seems to point that the findings are far from conclusive one way or another. As a parent, I can see where unsupervised and non-age appropriate exposure to the use of technology could lead to potential issues, but if the children are using the technology in an age-appropriate manner with parent or adult supervision and involvement, I believe that should ensure no harm comes to the child.
In our house (much to the chagrin of my son), we have established "screen time" allotments for every day. For instance, he is allowed three hours total for recreational screen time: television, video games, computer use (other than school work) or movies. And further ruining his life, we don't allow him to use video games on his Xbox or Wii unless they are rated appropriately for his age group, regardless of what "all his other friends are allowed to" do. Even some of the ones rated for "teen" are banned in our home if they are too graphic, violent or sexual in nature. Yes, we are those parents: involved.
At four years old, the twins rarely use their Leapster video games -- which are actually educational games teaching them to count, colors, letters, etc. -- for a combined three hours each day.
The twins are more likely to play for 20 minutes and move on to some other toy. They utilize more TV screen time than video games or computer use. Again, their TV use is geared more for educational programming, so the use of technology is far from harmful. And, of course, Family Movie & Pizza Night (Fridays) doesn't count toward any one's screen time, as it is family time which means my wife and I are actively involved in whatever movie or program we happen to be watching together as a family.
My son actually learned to read by using the computer program Hooked on Phonics, further combining technology with learning. My youngest daughter is well on her way to the same outcome using her Leapster. The technology has allowed both children to learn at their own pace, despite being nearly 10 years apart.
Back to my original questions: Of course, an infant can't independently use a cell phone, but they can learn from mimicking the behavior they see others engaging in as to the use of a cell phone. A toddler most likely cannot successfully use a radio controlled helicopter or car as his or her fine motor skills aren't refined enough, but toddlers definitely can successfully utilize age-appropriate technology, allowing them to be prepared for adoption of more technologically advanced devices as they get older.
I am excited about the marvels my children will have the opportunity to experience as they get older and more and more advances are made in the technology we use in our everyday lives. And the advances they will get to share with their own kids, someday? Very exciting, heady stuff.
With active parental supervision and involvement, age-appropriate technology wouldn't be any more harmful -- or potentially harmful -- than any other toy. Any toy, regardless of its level of technology, can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Ever stepped on a Lego block in the dark? I believe I have made my case.
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David has three children under the age of 14, including four-year old twin daughters. His wife, a web designer getting a Master's degree in Psychology, is a self-professed techno-geek and an early adopter of all cool gadgets that do not include the ability to photograph her. Despite the dangers and terror Lego blocks bring to the night shadows, they believe advanced technology promotes early learning and creativity even with Legos.
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