False Promise

Computers play an increasing role in the life of children (along with everyone else). How much is too much? More and more educators, physicians, and child development professionals are beginning to recognize that time in front of CRT (whether on a computer or a TV) is time that is not spent in interaction with the real world. This cover story in US News and World Report is prompted by and largely based on a new report, "Fool's Gold: A Critical Look at Computers in Childhood" by The Alliance for Childhood, that you can read online(link is external). The evidence is not all on one side, however. Some studies show that well-designed software, used in moderation, can encourage reflection and creativity.