The Use of Computers for Self-Expression and Communication

Ann Jones and Carolyn Selby
Journal of Computing in Childhood Education, Vol 8, No 2/3, p. 199-214

The educational use of information technology (IT) for children mainly fosters the development of their cognitive skills; yet recent work in developmental psychology suggests that cognitive, emotional, and social development are closely linked. There is also evidence that children's emotional and social histories have a significant impact on their cognitive development and performance. In this paper it is argued that attention should be paid to the role of IT in children's emotional and social development, especially for chidden having problems in these areas and for whom such difficulties may affect their school work. It reports on a study which is investigating the therapeutic potential of Bubble Dialogue, an application which supports role-play within a comic strip environment. An assessment is made of the extent to which the tool helps children to express their feelings and to reflect and debate pertinent issues. Current case studies are described, preliminary results are reported, and the salient issues arising from the use of computers in this context are discussed.

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Howard J. Bender, Ph.D.
President
The Education Process Improvement Center, Inc.
P.O. Box 186
Riverdale, Maryland 20738
hjbender@epicent.com