In terms of digital technology, platforms can be defined as so many different things. People have a ranging number of social media platforms. For example, Instagram, Facebook, twitter, etc. People in society also make business platforms. This includes websites such as Amazon, Etsy, Airbnb, Ebay, and so on.
“Google Generation”
As generations continue, children are finding more ways to access the internet, and explore new platforms. Take Google for example. A developmental psychologist Maryanne Wolf views children of our current generation as something extravagant when it comes to interacting with platforms. In the text from Old Media, New Media, And Knowledge, “when children learn to read today, they work more as “decoders” than deep readers (Carr 122).” Children are able to figure out letters on a key board. This is in a way decoding the word before reading. Then they type the word and may read it back to themselves.
In my personal experience, I have seen children read a number of platform names that speaks interest to them. For example, YouTube. If a child is seeking a particular video to channel, they need to know how to navigate themselves to get to their desired location within the platform. This requires trial and error of spelling, as well as exposure to reading new words.
Are Digital Platforms The Best Resource For Children?
Although children are able to figure out reading on their own, it is suggested that they have a limit on screen time. According to Inquiries Journal, “Technology overuse can contribute to developmental delays and decreased personal interactions and experiences that encourage the use of creativity and imagination.” (Shibboleth Authentication Request, n.d.) Children can learn to decode words in other ways. There are multiple reading games that don’t require technology available for children. There are further interactive activities that allow children to trial and error decoding with new words.
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