Summary
The increasing ubiquity of digital devices in childhood had outpaced the understanding of their effects on cognitive development. The potential for digital devices to enhance cognitive skills was weighed against risks such as cognitive overload, diminished attention spans, and impaired social skills.
In recent years, the rapid integration of digital devices into daily life has significantly reshaped the environments in which children develop. While early and frequent exposure to digital devices has been hailed for offering cognitive enhancements, a growing body of evidence suggests that great exposure may also carry substantial risks.
Research has shown that digital devices can either support cognitive growth or exacerbate developmental challenges. The relationship between digital device use and cognitive development is not uniform, as it is modulated by individual differences and contextual factors.
The relationship between digital device usage and childhood development is complex and multi-dimensional. This review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis of existing literature to highlight where further research is needed.
From an initial pool of over 2158 articles, we applied stringent exclusion criteria to refine the collection. We removed duplicate entries and screened the remaining articles based on their abstracts. This resulted in the selection of 300 articles for full-text assessment.
The exploration of how digital devices impact cognitive development necessitates a multifaceted understanding, drawing from both psychological and neurophysiological perspectives. The model synthesizes insights from developmental psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and clinical physiology.
Dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to reward and pleasure circuits, plays a pivotal role in learning and attention mechanisms. Increased dopamine activity can affect the brain’s ability to regulate attention and may impair executive functions. Prolonged exposure to screen-based multitasking can overload the brain's cognitive capacity.
Excessive use of such devices challenges the brain’s executive functions, including cognitive flexibility, working memory, and inhibitory control. The impact of digital devices on cognition can be analyzed through the framework of cognitive load theory. It suggests that the capacity of working memory is limited, and an overload of information can lead to decreased learning and retention capabilities.
The impact of digital devices on these functions has been shown to be dualistic. While certain digital activities such as educational games and problem-solving apps can enhance these abilities, excessive or misdirected use can impair them.
According to Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development, active, hands-on experiences are essential for cognitive growth. When screen time supplants activities such as physical play, interactive learning, and face-to-face social interactions, it may impede the development of critical cognitive skills. Balancing the content, context, and duration of device usage is essential to harnessing the benefits of technology while mitigating the risks.
The potential negative impact of digital devices on social development is supported by empirical research. Increased screen time was associated with lower psychological well-being. Structured and educational use of digital device can support learning and cognitive development.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children younger than 18 months avoid the use of screen media other than video chatting. A balanced approach is essential for fostering healthy cognitive and social development in children.
One of the primary positive effects noted in the literature is the enhancement of visuospatial skills. The ability to visualize and manipulate objects in space is also fundamental in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. Students who regularly engage with spatially demanding video games perform better in subjects such as geometry and physics.
Digital tools and apps designed for younger children can also foster visuospatial development. These activities support the development of early mathematical skills, such as geometry and measurement. Digital devices have demonstrated positive effects in language acquisition and literacy development.
Educational apps and e-books are designed to make learning interactive and fun, often incorporating multimedia elements that cater to different learning styles. Interactive features of digital books can enhance engagement and motivation, leading to better learning outcomes. Digital devices can be potent tools for enhancing early literacy and language skills.
The benefits of these digital tools extend to collaborative and competitive environments as well. Multiplayer games such as “World of Warcraft” and “Among Us” encourage teamwork and strategic thinking. Serious games, designed explicitly for educational purposes, also demonstrate significant positive impacts on cognitive development.
Interactive tasks that require sustained attention and quick responses can help improve children’s attentional control and selective attention. Not all digital devices use negatively impacts attention, and certain types of digital interactions can enhance this cognitive skill.
Research indicates that digital learning environments can help children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) manage their symptoms more effectively. By incorporating regular use of these apps into daily routines, children can practice and enhance their attentional skills.
Digital devices can support personalized learning experiences tailored to individual needs and preferences. Many educational platforms and games are designed to be used in group settings or online communities, promoting social interaction and cooperative problem-solving. Excessive or inappropriate use can lead to negative outcomes, such as reduced physical activity, sleep disturbances, and an increased risk of digital addiction.
Extensive research in cognitive psychology has shown that humans have a limited ability to sustain attention. It is essential for parents, educators, and policymakers to establish guidelines and practices that maximize the positive effects of digital devices while mitigating potential risks.
Excessive or inappropriate use of digital devices has been linked to several negative outcomes, particularly concerning attention span and focus. Children exposed to digital devices for more than two hours per day exhibited shorter attention spans and higher levels of distractibility.
The impact of digital device usage on childhood cognitive development is multifaceted, with both potential enhancements and detriments observed. The key to optimizing these effects lies in moderating the amount and type of digital content children are exposed to, coupled with active parental involvement.
The constant influx of information from digital devices can lead to cognitive overload, making it difficult to process and retain information effectively. Digital media multitasking can impair working memory and cognitive control. It is clear that these types of screen time engage children differently and have varying impacts on their development.
Digital devices often promote shallow processing of information due to the ease of access and rapid consumption of content. Research by Carr indicates that the habit of skimming through digital content, rather than engaging in deep reading, can hinder memory consolidation.
Executive functions allow directing behaviors towards an objective or goal in an effective way. The use of digital devices is emerging as a form of evaluation and training of executive functions.
The integration of digital technology into daily life, especially the lives of children, is steadily growing. The abilities that are connected to this topic are commonly known as 21st-century skills. These abilities encompass a novel form of literacy known as digital literacy.
Interacting with digital devices and educational games can cause bewilderment and boredom in preschool-aged children. These negative emotions might lead to mind-wandering and exploration, which can actually help facilitate learning.
Mnemonic devices are cognitive strategies that can be employed to encode information, resulting in enhanced retention of the concepts provided. Cioca et al. reported that visual mnemonic devices had a beneficial effect on creativity. We will explore the impact of mnemonics on teaching and learning processes, as well as the role of artificial intelligence and smart personal assistants in enhancing the creative process of education.
Despite the growing body of research on SPA technology in education, there is a lack of empirical evidence about its effectiveness in providing dynamic scaffolding to improve students’ problem-solving skills. However, evidence showed that groups exhibited significant improvements in their problem-Solving abilities.
The understanding is that the combination of creativity with AI has the potential to generate a range of different futures. The organization is dedicated to creating a supportive atmosphere that promotes innovative self-expression while also ensuring the responsible and ethical use of AI.
There seems to be some consensus in the literature that the effect of these digital devices on development and social interaction will depend to a large extent on different factors. With regard to the age of minors, various studies have highlighted the negative effects of these devices on the development of juveniles.
With regard to adolescence, the data provided in the literature are controversial. Some authors argue that excessive use of these devices increases the likelihood of suffering from psychosocial, emotional, and social difficulties.
Excessive use of social media can hinder face-to-face communication and contribute to mental health problems. The “always-on” culture fostered by digital technologies has created unreasonable expectations of constant availability and rapid responses. One effective strategy is to establish clear boundaries and prioritize face- to-face interactions.
Balancing digital device usage is a critical challenge for individuals, especially students. While technology provides valuable opportunities, recognizing the importance of in-person social interactions and real-world relationship building is essential.
Integration of digital devices in the classroom has been shown to enhance the learning environment for all students. The use of electronic academic devices has been demonstrated to improve motivation, the ability to apply course-based understanding, and overall academic achievement. However, the impact of digital device on academic performance is complex.
The impact of digital devices on academic performance is not without complexities. The prevalence of digital device usage during early childhood is increasing. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, educational stakeholders need to balance embracing technological advancements and maintaining a conducive learning environment.
Excessive use of mobile devices can lead to changes in the cerebral cortex, which can affect executive functions such as planning, working memory, and cognitive flexibility. Neuroplasticity enables children to learn and adapt to their environment during this period of their psychological development.
Studies have shown that the use of digital devices, such as video games and the internet, can have a negative impact on brain volume and intelligence scores. It is important to note that these findings are objective and not subjective evaluations.
The scientific and educational community is studying disruptive behaviors associated with the use of digital devices. Excessive use of these devices in the family context may lead to maladaptive behaviors. These can negatively impact the maturational and social development of children and young people.
Studies have shown that the type of content children access on mobile devices has a significant impact on their behavior. Children under the age of 6 exhibit more aggressive behavior when exposed to certain types of content. These behaviors should be clearly marked as subjective evaluations if included.
The use of digital devices in today’s society is a challenge for educators, families, and the scientific community. The data collected on their benefits and harms raises doubts among all actors involved in the education of children and young people worldwide. It is crucial to establish policies that regulate the use of these resources in educational institutions.
Both parents and schools should aim to create a supportive environment that leverages the benefits of digital devices while being mindful of their potential drawbacks, the authors say.
It has been highlighted that while digital devices can enhance executive functions such as cognitive control and decision-making. The negative consequences of excessive or inappropriate digital device usage include reduced attention spans and sleep disruptions.
Subrahmanyam, K. and Šmahel, D. (Eds.) Connecting Online Behavior to Adolescent Development: A Theoretical Framework. In Digital Youth: The Role of Media in Development. Springer: New York.
Dux, Tombu, and Marois: How Has the Internet Reshaped Human Cognition? Available online: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/cog1202/cg1202.
The Origins of Intelligence in Children is published by W. W. Norton & Co. in 1952. The book is about the development of intelligence in children.
A look at some of the research published in the past year on the subject of reading comprehension and vocabulary. The study was conducted by the National Center for Literacy Research.
Dye, Green, and Bavelier: Increasing Speed of Processing With Action Video Games. Kollins, DeLoss, and Faraone: A Novel Digital Intervention for Actively Reducing Severity of Paediatric ADHD.
Carrera, Mazzarella, and Bavelier: Action Video Game Modifies Visual Selective Attention. Radesky, Christakis, and Neidell: Media Use Is Linked to Lower Psychological Well-Being.
A look at some of the research on the effects of digital media on young children. The study looked at the impact of screen time on the development of young children's brains.
Sparrow, B. and Liu, J.M. Google Effects on Memory: Cognitive Consequences of Having Information at Our Fingertips.
Authors: Excessive Screen Media Use in Preschoolers Is Associated with Poor Motor Skills. Authors: Screen Media use in Pres school children is associated with poor motor skills.
Mnemonics in Education: Current Research and Applications. Using Mnemonics to Improve Vocabulary, Boost Memory and Enhance Creativity.
Winkler, Söllner, Neuweiler, and Bittner: Hey Alexa, Please Help Us Solve This Problem.
A look at the findings from a study of the effects of TV on children's development. The study was published in the journal Pediatrics. The authors also looked at the effects on the development of the brain.
The study looked at the impact of technology and social media on students' mental health. The authors also looked at how the study affected students' academic performance.
Digital Media Use in the 2 h before Bedtime Is Associated with Sleep Variables in University Students. Students’ Academic Use of Mobile Technology and Higher-Order Thinking Skills.
Schindler, L.A. and Marsh: Computer-Based Technology and Student Engagement. The Influence of Emerging Technologies on Distance Education: A Critical Review of the Literature.
How Early Digital Experience Shapes Young Brains During 0-12 Years: A Scoping Review. Available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/10.1080/10409289.2023.
The influence of using digital devices on the development of children and the importance of considering the context, content, and duration of this usage. Smartphone addiction, Sleep Quality, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress among Medical Students.
Clemente-Suárez, Beltrán-Velasco, Rodriguez-Besteiro, Martín-Rodriguez and Tornero-Aguilera. Digital Device Usage and Childhood Cognitive Development: Exploring Effects on Cognitive Abilities.
