Researchers to study information technology impact on children

Michigan State University researchers will use a $750,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to better understand the nature and extent of children's information technology (IT) use and how using IT is affecting them. [via News-Medical.net]

"The Children and Technology Project" is a research project designed to determine the consequences of using IT on children's cognitive, social, psychological and moral development.

Specifically, the project will examine whether using IT, particularly the Internet and video games, influences cognitive outcomes, such as visual skills, grade point average or scores on standardized achievement tests; social interaction, such as relationships with friends and family; issues of psychological well-being, such as self-esteem and self-concept; and moral development − reasoning about "right and wrong" in both the virtual and physical world.

"Children are spending more and more time using information technology," Jackson said."The Internet, cell phones, instant messaging and video games now occupy huge segments of children's everyday lives. Yet very little is known about how using IT is affecting them.

"Does using IT help or hurt children? Are some kinds of IT better than others? Do characteristics of the child influence whether IT use is helpful or harmful? are some of the questions that need to be addressed," she said".

emily | 4:38 PM | Health Issues and SMS Alerts |
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