While technology is a huge boon to many industries, it can also be a curse to our children’s brains. Research suggests that prolonged exposure to screens can reduce attention spans, as the brain gets rewarded for jumping from one task to another. This leads to a different wiring in the brain for kids who spend most of their time in front of the screen. Even teenagers might prefer the immediate gratification of a quick video rather than a longer, complex task.
Internet-connected toys violated children’s privacy
Last year, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a complaint against the company VTech Electronics over the collection of child data. The complaint alleged that VTech did not provide parents with sufficient notice or obtain verifiable consent before collecting personal data on children. The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act requires companies to obtain parents’ consent before collecting data from children. In addition, VTech failed to use reasonable and appropriate data security measures to protect the information collected from children.
The toys contain microphones, cameras, sensors, data storage components, and GPS options. Because these tools can access sensitive data, they can pose exploitation risks and create a trust problem. The FBI urges consumers to carefully research the privacy policies and security measures of smart toys before purchasing them.
A 2016 report found that a large number of connected toys breached children’s privacy. A data breach at VTech Electronics North America, LLC exposed the personal information of six million children and four million adults. The data breach exposed information that could have been used in identity theft, credit card fraud, and even child abduction. The data breach was particularly problematic because children’s information is often a blank canvas, and most parents do not actively monitor their children’s information.
Impact of VR on learning
Although many educators are wary of the impact of VR on learning, a recent study shows that the technology has many positive benefits. First, VR offers an immersive experience that can be tailored to the individual needs of students. The ability to gauge student productivity in real time allows instructors to adjust pace and style accordingly. It also helps to reinforce the concept of learning by doing. This technology also fosters experiential learning and builds students’ interest in the subject. Additionally, numerous studies have shown that VR reduces cognitive load and enhances memory of complex subjects.
VR technology is also a promising educational tool for students with special needs. It can help students with developmental disabilities develop social skills by simulating real-life situations, such as social interaction with others. This technology can even simulate situations to help students learn how to manage emotions and communicate.
Impact of augmented reality on attention spans
Augmented reality (AR) has been proven to increase students’ attention spans and achieve academic goals. It can also help students learn more about science by giving them the opportunity to interact with real-world objects, such as windmills, solar panels, or electricity. It has been proven to increase students’ achievement and improve their attitudes towards science courses.
It helps children visualize concepts and situations that are otherwise impossible to grasp. This can be especially useful for children with dyslexia or special educational needs who may find it difficult to remember things. These apps can also help children who have difficulty memorizing facts in a traditional classroom setting.
Augmented reality can be used as a teaching tool for kids, but caution is needed when using it for entertainment purposes. Kids shouldn’t be exposed to too much augmented reality, as it can lead to cognitive dissonance. It should be used in moderation, and the intensity should be reduced over time to make it acceptable for kids.