What Are the Benefits of Children Using Computers?

We live in an increasingly technology-based society. Children need to be prepared to enter a workforce and a world in which computers are a focal point of everyday life. There are several benefits of children using computers both in the classroom and at home.

Educational Benefits

Being able to learn on a computer has opened up new ways for students to develop academically, especially those who struggle with a learning disorder. Countless websites offer reading and math interventions already designed to help students with specific disabilities. Whereas a teacher in the classroom once had to work long hours to find ways to help hard-to-reach children, the computer provides ready-made activities and interactive games for immediate use.

Communication Benefits

Because of computers and the Internet, our world is more closely connected than it has been in any other century. Children do not just have to study about other cultures and belief systems in a textbook. They can actually talk to people and find out firsthand through discussion boards, instant messaging and chat rooms. It is a great benefit for children to learn about other countries, their people and their cultural environment because it instills a sense of community and tolerance.

Career Benefits

By being knowledgeable about computers and the World Wide Web, children will be able to research career opportunities as well as the universities that can prepare them for their chosen profession. They will also have the opportunity to work at their computers from home or other remote locations, making it possible to work for employers all over the world.

Accessibility Benefits

One of the main benefits of computers for children is the availability of knowledge and its instant access. Children can research any subject for academic or personal use from an endless variety of sources. This encourages children to think critically as they learn how to find information and navigate search engines.

Personal Benefits

Through computers, children have the potential to change their outlook on their abilities, confidence and self-esteem. A shy or withdrawn child can talk to others from the privacy of a keyboard. Children with emotional problems or those who are not often around other children do not have to feel totally isolated if they have access to the outside world via the Internet.

Resources

• Computers in early childhood education