Related Literature in Technology and Lifesyles - 4620 Words

NASPA Journal, 2007, Vol. 44, no. 3 Students’ Technology Use and Its Effects on Peer Relationships, Academic Involvement, and Healthy Lifestyles Jan M. Lloyd Laura A. Dean Diane L. Cooper The purpose of this study was to explore students’ technology use and its relationship with their psychosocial development. Previous research explored students’ computer use in conjunction with their cognitive development. This study examined the effects of computer use and other technologies, such as instant messaging, handheld gaming devices, and MP3 players, and the impact they have on students’ peer relationships, academic involvement, and healthy lifestyles. Results show both positive and negative effects on all three constructs of psychosocial†¦show more content†¦On average, students in the 2005 study reported that they spend 11 to 15 hours a week using technology. Despite the increase in all types of technology, little is known about how these technologies impact student development (Lewis, Coursol, Khan, 2001). A perception by colleges is that technology will have a positive impact on student learning. Academically, computers allow students to communicate with faculty more often (Arend, 2005), which can improve student-faculty relationships. Students claim to have a better understanding of course material through the use of technology in the classroom (Arend, 2005). Some research studies, however, have conflicting results. Kuh and Vesper (2001) examined the relationship between students’ use of computers and students’ cognitive and intellectual development gains reported on the College Student Experiences Questionnaire. These 23 developmental gains include student reported gains such as writing clearly, ability to learn on own, understanding other people, and understanding science as some examples. Students who used computers more often outscored students with low use on every developmental gain. Students also scored significantly higher on learning how to function as a team member. The authors surmise that computers may make it easier for students to communicate with one another and therefore does not hinde r students’ social skills. However, a study by Flower, Pascarella, and Pierson