Attention and Memory in the Age of Technology

Positive Effects of Technology on the Attention and Memory of children
Technology has several positive effects on the memory and attention of young children.
Overall Learning Potential
Technology has a variety of educational elements that can help a young child's overall learning (Western Governors University, 2019). Games or apps on computers, phones or tablets, videos, TV shows and music from these devices are all considered forms of technology that children are usually exposed to. The following will focus on how technology with limited use can support a child's learning as well as its positive effects on a child's attention and memory.

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Touch Devices and Attention
Technology Gives young children the opportunity to focus their attention for long periods of time.
A study was conducted in Turkey that involved children with special needs or disabilities and touchscreen devices (Durgungoz & Durgungoz, 2021). The researchers were looking at the level of engagement the children were experiencing while doing school-related work with touch screens versus with traditional materials (Durgungoz & Durgungoz, 2021). The results of this study showed that “the participants’ attention time was longer with the touchscreen device’” (Durgungoz & Durgungoz, 2021, p. 92). Also, the success of these children during the study was related to the mobile application (Durgungoz & Durgungoz, 2021).

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Cognition, Atention & Memory
Limited screen time can support cognitive development.
A systematic review was conducted on preschool-aged children and it found that using electronics such as television, apps and games for less than 30 minutes a day can be associated with cognitive development such as attention and memory (Ricci et al., 2022, p. 5). This means that giving young children the opportunity to have limited screentime, can support their development.
Executive Functioning
Screentime within limits supports executive funnctioning
"Re et al. (2015) reported that computerized cognitive training programs are beneficial for executive functions (attention, inhibition, and working memory) in preschool children with ADHD symptoms and typical development, indicating the potential advantages of an early intervention in the early childhood" (as cited in Jin & Lin, 2022, p. 318).

(Skelley, n.d.).