Early Childhood Computer Experience and Cognitive Development among Urban Low-Income Preschoolers

Abstract

This study investigates the association between home computer experience and cognitive development among preschool children in inner-city Head Start programs. Approximately 200 children enrolled in four Head Start centers in Detroit, Michigan were recruited to participate in this study. Data was collected from parents regarding the children's experience with computers in the home environment, including their access to a computer, the amount of time spent on the computer, and types of programs used on the computer. Each child was assessed using the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities (MSCA) and the Boehm Test of Basic Concepts, Third Edition Preschool (Boehm-3). Results suggest that using a computer is positively correlated with some aspects of cognitive development. After controlling for parent's education and household income, children who had access to a computer in their home had significantly higher scores of the Verbal, Perceptual-Performance, and General Cognitive scales of the MSCA. Furthermore, frequency of children's computer use was related to scores on the Boehm-3. These results suggest that early computer use at home may be a positive influence in young children's cognitive development. 97

Look, My Baby Is Using an iPad! An Analysis of YouTube Videos of Infants and Toddlers Using Tablets

“…They found that using a computer correlated with some aspects of cognitive development after controlling for parental education and income [7].…”

Üni̇versi̇te Öğrenci̇leri̇ni̇n İnternet Bağimliliğinda Sosyal Öğrenmeni̇n Ve Model Almanin Rolü Üzeri̇ne Ni̇tel Bi̇r İnceleme

“…In the same study, it is seen that the number of electronic devices in the home increases as the education level of parents increases (Aktaş, 2005). Fish et al (2008). stated that it is necessary to take into consideration the advantages of the computer and internet usage which can be affected by variables such as education level of parents, income, having a computer at home.…”

Features Of Cognitive Processes In Children With Different Internet Activity

“…So A. Fish and colleagues show that children using home digital devices have higher cognitive development rates than children who have no computer at home (Fish, Li, McCarrick& Partridge, 2008).…”