Comps turn kids dumb in math: Study

In fact,the researchers were able to compare the same children’s reading and maths scores before and after they acquired a home computer. They could also compare their scores to those of peers who had always had a home computer and to those who never had access to one.

The negative effects on reading and maths scores were “modest but significant”,the findings revealed.

Lead researcher Professor Jacob Vigdor said: “Adults may think of computer technology as a productivity tool but the average kid doesn’t share that perception.”

The figures covered 2000 to 2005,a period before the rise of networking sites such as Facebook,which,said the study,could have an even bigger impact.

According to the researchers,home computers are put to better use in households where parental monitoring is more effective and in disadvantaged households,parents are less likely to monitor children’s computer use and guide them in using the technology to help their schoolwork.

Prof Vigdor concluded that for schools hoping to maximise attainment or reduce the impact of socio-economic disparities “a programme of broadening home computer access would be counter-productive”.

However,the study,published by the National Bureau of Economic Research,said home computers may boost technical skills not measured in school tests which could help pupils find work in later life.