The effect of a home computer on the cognitive development of a child in the primary age

Abstract

Children's exposure to computers at home and school is extending. Inevitably, we are faced with the challenge of understanding how this new educational technology can enhance rather than undermine children's cognitive and academic development. The following dissertation focuses on the impact of computers as a support to learning in curriculum areas such as problem solving, creativity, communicative skills, and decision-making. It focuses on one particular niche in computer use: home computing. Two groups of two pairs (same gender) of children are observed by means of lab-experiments; one group having access to a home computer and the other group does not have access. All pairs are assigned the same four tasks and left on their own devices to reach their targets. The activities are all joint problem solving. The case study is supported by literature review. The results suggest that access to home computer has a significant positive effect on children. Additionally, home access to computer depends mostly on the familial environment such as parents' occupations. Given the fact that home computer is a resource that promotes intellectual development, we must be concerned about those without computer access. Thus, we must do our utmost to bridge the emerging 'digital divide'. Only then can our children's work be fairly and comprehensively assessed.