How technology affects the way we read and write

Abstract

Studies have been conducted regarding the impact that easily accessible technology, including smart phones, tablets, streaming devices, video games, etc, have on the educational, cognitive, and social development of young children. These studies showed that social media and increased screen time in excessive amounts may have negative impacts on a child’s mental health, but that access to this technology, as well as texting, does not hinder a child’s ability to read, write, and process information. These studies showed that young children and adolescents exhibit an increased level of literacy, as well as a new form of literacy known as “text speak.” They also exhibit a high level of understanding when informal writing is appropriate and when it is not, meaning they showed a positive understanding of grammar and syntax when given exams during these experiments.