Technology and Kids
I am doing research on whether or not technology, such as IMing and text, is affecting our youths ability to spell, read, write and use correct grammar. Do you feel that shortcuts such as ROFL and BRB (there are hundreds of examples) pay a disadvantage to the learning mind? How do you feel about the over-exposure of technology used by kids?
Your feedback is much appreciated! I need as many comments on this issue as I can get. Thank you!
YES! Personally, I love the convenience of texting, IMing, and social media. I especially love that you can spell check every message that goes out, and that my phone now finishes my thoughts for me. Okay, not really. I think that society in general (and this is definitely NOT aimed strictly at youth and/or teens) has become lazy and overly reliant on technology. Go to any social media source, such as Facebook, and start reading the posts. I no longer believe that shortcuts are just shortcuts - sadly, I think that people have totally forgotten how to spell AND how to speak (type) in sentences that are grammatically correct. While I appreciate spell check from time to time, I also remember what it was like to have to look words up (in a real dictionary, with pages and everything!). A few months ago, my teenager was writing a paper, and he asked me how to spell something. When I told him to 'look it up', he looked at me with a blank stare and said (and I quote), 'but you are on the computer'. A dictionary never even crossed his mind - and my son is an intelligent child. He is, however, a product of his generation and the 'conveniences' of technology. Anyway...I'll get off of my soapbox. But if you see my head explode the next time someone writes the word 'definately' on Facebook, you'll understand...
ReplyDeleteI know nothing about children or teens. I do think that these services which allow us to abbreviate communication are here to stay.
ReplyDeleteThere are a lot of societal expectations that force people to multi-task and do things as quickly as possible.
I think it's important to be able to write so that other people understand your ideas. A person who can't write might be limited in the job market?
I feel many things becoming to easy for children and teens. Technology is taking over, but they still get what they need, sometimes technology helps them to learn more than what they would learn in school. I mean my son and I can find out about any scientific fact online. But, texting, and even microsoft office makes it easier, you don't even have to know how to spell it correctly it does it for you. I am split on this question, I guess.
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