The section in chapter 16 about technology and cognition was interesting. Parents and teachers often lament how much time adolescents spend in front of computers and on iPods and cell phones. With the advent of texting, instant messenger and facebook, more students are writing in a language code consisting mostly of abbreviations and lacking any consistent grammar. And sitting in front of a screen all day (whether TV, computer or video game) seems to hinder the development of communication and social relational skills. Additionally, cyberbullying has become a problem. However, Berger notes that this increased use of technology may not be all bad. In fact, “Internet use may improve reading and spacial skills” (Berger, 2008, p. 405). Adolescents spend a lot of time surfing the web, which requires reading skills and being able to quickly discern what information is useful or desirable to investigate further, and which is a waste of time. In an age when so much information about so many trivial things is thrown at people all the time, developing a sense of discernment like this seems beneficial. As long as adolescents are guided by caring parents and teachers and taught to avoid questionable sites on the Internet, it can be a great tool for communication among friends, researching for school projects, getting news, and may even help students build skills they need for the rest of their lives.
Berger, K. S. (2008). The Developing Person Through the Lifespan. New York: Worth Publishers.
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