Computer literacy is defined as the knowledge and ability to use computers and related technology efficiently, with a range of skills covering levels from elementary use to programming and advanced problem solving. Computer skills refer to the ability to use the software and hardware of a computer. Being "computer functional" is usually what is meant by one with computer skills; computer literacy is only really evident in advanced computer skills (Computer Literacy). Children's lives are already getting influenced by technology – and this is just the beginning. Computers and Internet are here to stay and software titles targeting young children continue to increase (Computers: A blessing or a Curse).
An advantage takes place upon the implementation of the computer literacy program for elementary school children nowadays. One of the advantages that could take place knows the basic things in the computer and how to use it. It can help them arouse their basic computer skills and would be properly educated about computers. Through computer literacy they would discover lots of things by just using the internet. Also students may learn and gain lots of experience through it. Computers help children to be in control of their experience, to set their own pace, and to select the level of challenge with which they feel comfortable (Advantages of Computer Literacy). Most children at the present time are more exposed to the fast changing trend of technology with high-tech gadgets. Good educational software enables children to develop and practice broad range skills. It can help them learn, for example, about letters, numbers, shapes, colors, and rhythm. Good software can also help children develop their understanding of cause and effect, higher order problem solving, procedural thinking, and creative expression.
While computers can be a valuable tool, there are disadvantages integrating these technological devices into a classroom. Computers offer convenience and allow students to create polished products, but with these advantages come potential problems that could lead to decreased educational effectiveness within a classroom and allow for problems down the line in the child's schooling (Disadvantages of Computers). Children may develop technological dependence upon the use of these tools. Another downside of having a computer literacy for children is the abusive use of computers by playing games for many hours and could affect their grades in school. We cannot deny that through this program, children can easily developed and learn some applications in the computers (for those who have their own computers at home), and could be an added challenge for teachers in dealing vast difference to other children who do not know. Teachers deal with the varying computer literacy levels of students. Another thing is that computers make academic dishonesty even easier for students to perpetrate. At an early age, children can make plagiarism in their own doings without knowing what the right thing to do is. This added ease of cheating may incline more students to attempt academic dishonesty. It could also make children irresponsible on doing there responsibilities at school.
Overall, the benefits seem to outweigh the drawbacks. And, the fact is, actively involved parents can control most of the drawbacks. This p[uts even greater responsibility on parents to be vigilant and conservative in their judgment about their children's computer usage. A regular and constant watch is very necessary, especially regarding the internet. Computers offer substantial benefits to young children and their development and to families as a whole. At the right age, a computer is a wonderful thing that every child deserves to have. Accordingly, if a family can afford a computer without sacrificing other important, traditional childhood experiences, then this environment should contain a computer set-up that can be accessed as easily as books and other playthings and integrated in the family's day-to-day activities in a natural way. With parental guidance, quality software, parental control software, safe surfing tips, and their own love of discovery and learning, young children can work wonders with computers & the internet. They can also gain and reap the benefits of computer literacy for the rest of their technology-filled lives.
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