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Screen-based media - the issues |
| What do we mean by screen-based media? |
| Screen-based media are electronic devices which have a screen such as televisions, computers, mobile phones and games consoles. |
| What is there to worry about? |
- Some children spend too much time watching TV and playing computer games. As a result they are becoming socially isolated and are not getting enough exercise. They are in danger of becoming over-weight and unhealthy 'couch potatoes'.
- Many people think that violent computer games and violence on television could make children more aggressive and less sensitive to other people's pain and suffering.
- There are a number of health risks associated with spending too much time playing computere games, eg repetitive strain injury such as Nintendo thumb.
- It is difficult for parents to supervise what their children watch on TV. Children can easily get hold of computer games and films that are not suitable. Many children have a TV and computer in their bedroom which makes it even more difficult to supervise what they watch and play.
- It is difficult for parents to control what their children do on the internet and who they meet in chat rooms.
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| What's good about television? |
- Nowadays, 24 hour TV and satellite/cable options means that there is a wide variety of TV programmes available for children to watch at any point. Whilst there is a lot of rubbish, there are also many educational programmes.
- Most television programmes aimed at teenagers try to deliver messages about various social issues. They deal with girl/boyfriend problems, sex, relationships within the family giving examples of a normal family background and a disrupted or broken family. When bigger issues such as rape or abuse are involved television producers are usually responsible enough to give helpline numbers at the end of the programme. Teenagers can relate to these issues and form an opinion. TV helps young people develop a social conscience and make choices.
- Television helps teenagers learn to make informed choices, not just about what to watch but about what they see and whether it was good or not, quality of acting etc.
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| What's good about computer games? |
- Computer games help children develop important skills such as problem-solving, hand-eye coordination and multi-processing.
- Simulations enable children to try things out and learn how things work without being in any danger.
- Computer games make learning more fun.
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| What's good about the internet?
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- The internet is a great way of getting information. Using a search engine like Google you can find out everything you need to know about any subject.
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