#4 - How the Use of Technology Enhances Children's Development

It is clear that as technology continues to grow and change, so does the way children socialize. But how exactly does the use of technology enhance children's socialization and development? Click here for the full article!

When children use any form of technology, they have the opportunity to meet certain technology standards created by the International Society of Technology in Education (ISTE). Some of these standards include:

• "Work cooperatively and collaboratively with peers, family members, and others when using technology in the classroom"
• "Demonstrate positive social and ethical behaviors when using technology"
• "Use developmentally appropriate multimedia resources to support learning"
• "Use technology resources for problem solving, communication, and illustration of thoughts, ideas, and stories"

These standards clearly indicate that technology serves as a platform for learning and socialization for children. Although skeptics express concern that technology is causing a decrease in child socialization, research has shown that it actually promotes positive interaction. According to the article, "Children engage in diverse social interactions when using the computer including asking for help; directing others’ actions; providing information, assistance, and instruction; managing turn taking; acknowledging each other; commenting on each other’s actions; and disagreeing." Technology has also vastly improved children's cognitive skills. Computers have been known to serve as a motivator, reinforcement, entertainment, scaffolding, and unique stimulation for kids. 

The growing technology in our world today has numerous benefits in childhood education and socialization; however, we should express cautious optimism for the future. While technology can be a fantastic learning tool, too much of it can still be potentially harmful.